Alcohol Derivatives - Carboxylic Acids

Carboxylic acids are made when primary alcohols are oxidised under reflux. They are weak acids, as they do not completely dissociate in water. This means that they have a lower hydronium ion concentration that inorganic acids, like hydrochloric acid, so have a higher pH (but still below 7) and slower reaction rate.

For more information about carboxylic acids and their reactions, click HERE (ChemGuide)