Oxidation
Carboxylic acids are obtained from alcohols by oxidation. The process of oxidation involves the addition of oxygen or removal of hydrogen from a compound. In the case of alcohols, the carbon atom bonded to the hydroxyl group (-OH) is oxidized to a carboxyl group (-COOH).

Process of Oxidation
When an alcohol is oxidized, the alcohol functional group (-OH) is converted into a carbonyl group (C=O). This can be achieved by using an oxidizing agent such as potassium dichromate (K2Cr2O7) or acidified potassium permanganate (KMnO4).

Oxidizing Agents
Oxidizing agents are substances that can accept electrons from other compounds. In the case of alcohol oxidation, the oxidizing agent accepts electrons from the alcohol molecule, causing it to lose hydrogen atoms and form a carboxylic acid.

Example
For example, when ethanol (CH3CH2OH) is oxidized, it is converted into ethanoic acid (CH3COOH). The oxidation reaction can be represented as follows:
CH3CH2OH + [O] → CH3COOH + H2O

Further Oxidation
If the oxidation reaction is carried out further, the carboxylic acid can be converted into carbon dioxide and water. However, the specific conditions and oxidizing agents used determine the extent of oxidation.

Importance of Oxidation
The oxidation of alcohols to carboxylic acids is an important reaction in organic chemistry. Carboxylic acids are versatile compounds that are widely used in various industrial processes, such as the production of pharmaceuticals, polymers, and food additives. They also have biological significance and are found in many natural substances, including fatty acids and amino acids.

In conclusion, carboxylic acids are obtained from alcohols by oxidation. This process involves the conversion of the alcohol functional group into a carbonyl group, resulting in the formation of a carboxylic acid. Oxidizing agents are used to facilitate this reaction, and the extent of oxidation can vary depending on the specific conditions and reagents employed.

Oxidization