Aromatic acids are a type of chemical compounds that have a carboxylic acid functional group (-COOH) combined with the aromatic benzene ring structure. They are also referred to as aromatic carboxylic acids. These substances have a variety of uses in chemistry, business, and daily life. They are distinguished by their unique smell, which is frequently characterized as strong or pungent. Benzoic acid (C3H2O₂) is one of the most well-known aromatic acids. It is a naturally occurring chemical found in many different plants and is a precursor to many other organic compounds. Frequently utilized as an E210 food preservative, it possesses antibacterial qualities. Grignard reagents can be carboxylated or toluene can be oxidized to produce benzoic acid. Salicylic acid (C3H2O₃), another significant aromatic acid, is well-known for its application in drugs like aspirin. It is made from willow tree bark and contains analgesic and anti-inflammatory qualities. Because salicylic acid can heal acne and exfoliate skin, it is also used in skincare products. Yet another aromatic acid with a pleasant, honey-like smell is phenylacetic acid (C3H2O₂). It is employed in the manufacturing of several medications and fragrances. The Friedel-Crafts acylation procedure can be used to create this acid from benzene and acetic acid. Terephthalic acid, or C4H2O₄, is an essential ingredient in the creation of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), which is used to make polyester fibers and plastic bottles. Either dimethyl terephthalate hydrolysis or para-xylene oxidation are used in its synthesis. Beyond their uses in food preservation, medicine, scent, and polymers, aromatic acids have other uses. In addition, they are used in the synthesis of agrochemicals, fragrances, and colors. These compounds possess a wide range of properties and applications due to their unusual combination of the carboxylic acid group and the aromatic benzene ring. In conclusion, aromatic acids are an important family of organic molecules with a unique smell and a wide range of uses in many sectors of the economy. Chemicals such as benzoic acid and salicylic acid are essential in everyday life, chemistry, and manufacturing, with the former serving as a preservative and the latter having medical use.
