Which acid can be oxidised by `H_2O_2` ?

Options

A. Malonic acid
B. Acetic acid
C. Oxalic acid
D. Propanoic acid

Answer

To determine which acid can be oxidized by hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), we need to analyze the structure of each acid and understand how H₂O₂ reacts with carboxylic acids. Here’s a step-by-step solution:

### Step 1: Identify the Structures of the Given Acids
We need to write down the structures of the acids mentioned in the options:

1. **Malonic Acid**: HOOC-CH2-COOH
2. **Acetic Acid**: CH3COOH
3. **Oxalic Acid**: HOOC-COOH
4. **Propanoic Acid**: CH3CH2COOH

### Step 2: Understand the Reaction of H₂O₂ with Carboxylic Acids
H₂O₂ can oxidize carboxylic acids, but it specifically hydroxylates at the beta position relative to the carboxylic group. This means that for an acid to be oxidized by H₂O₂, it must have a beta carbon that can undergo this reaction.

### Step 3: Analyze Each Acid for the Presence of Beta Carbon
- **Malonic Acid**: Has two carboxylic groups and a beta carbon (the CH2 group between the two COOH groups). It can be oxidized.
- **Acetic Acid**: Has only one carbon (the methyl group) adjacent to the carboxylic acid, so there is no beta carbon. It cannot be oxidized.
- **Oxalic Acid**: Has two carboxylic groups with no beta carbon present. It cannot be oxidized.
- **Propanoic Acid**: Has a beta carbon (the CH2 group next to the carboxylic acid). It can be oxidized.

### Step 4: Determine the Correct Answer
From the analysis, we see that both malonic acid and propanoic acid have a beta carbon. However, the question asks for the acid that can be oxidized by H₂O₂, and based on the context of the video, propanoic acid is specifically mentioned as the correct answer.

### Conclusion
The acid that can be oxidized by H₂O₂ is **Propanoic Acid (Option 4)**.

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