Provide a molecular structure that corresponds to the given name.
(a) benzoic propanoic anhydride

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the name 'benzoic propanoic anhydride'. This name indicates that the compound is an anhydride formed from benzoic acid and propanoic acid.
2. Step 2: Recall the structure of benzoic acid. Benzoic acid is a carboxylic acid with the formula C₆H₅COOH, where the carboxyl group (COOH) is attached to a benzene ring.
3. Step 3: Recall the structure of propanoic acid. Propanoic acid is a carboxylic acid with the formula CH₃CH₂COOH, where the carboxyl group is attached to a two-carbon alkyl chain.
4. Step 4: Combine the two acids to form an anhydride. In an anhydride, two carboxylic acid molecules are joined by an oxygen atom, with the loss of a water molecule. The general formula for an anhydride is RCOOCOR'.
5. Step 5: Draw the structure of benzoic propanoic anhydride. Connect the carbonyl carbon of benzoic acid to the oxygen, and then connect the oxygen to the carbonyl carbon of propanoic acid. The resulting structure will have a benzene ring attached to one carbonyl group and a propyl group attached to the other.

Key Concepts

Anhydride Functional Group

Anhydrides are a type of functional group derived from carboxylic acids, characterized by the presence of two acyl groups bonded to the same oxygen atom. They are typically formed by the dehydration of two carboxylic acid molecules. In the context of benzoic propanoic anhydride, it involves the combination of benzoic acid and propanoic acid.

Benzoic Acid Structure

Benzoic acid is an aromatic carboxylic acid with the formula C6H5COOH. It consists of a benzene ring (C6H5) attached to a carboxyl group (COOH). Understanding its structure is crucial for identifying how it contributes to the formation of benzoic propanoic anhydride, where it provides one of the acyl groups.

Propanoic Acid Structure

Propanoic acid, also known as propionic acid, is a simple carboxylic acid with the formula CH3CH2COOH. It consists of a three-carbon chain with a terminal carboxyl group. In the formation of benzoic propanoic anhydride, propanoic acid provides the second acyl group, which combines with the acyl group from benzoic acid.