Name a characteristic reaction of carboxylic acids.

Carboxylic acids are well-known for their ability to undergo neutralization reactions with bases, forming salts and water. This characteristic reaction is central to the behavior of carboxylic acids due to their acidic nature. When a carboxylic acid (which has a functional group denoted by -COOH) reacts with a base (such as sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide), the hydrogen atom from the -COOH group is donated to the base, resulting in the formation of a salt and water.

For instance, when acetic acid (a carboxylic acid) reacts with sodium hydroxide, sodium acetate and water are produced. This type of reaction is a classic example of acid-base chemistry and showcases the reactivity of carboxylic acids in neutralization scenarios.

While esterification is also a significant reaction for carboxylic acids, it specifically involves their reaction with alcohols and requires the presence of an acid catalyst, making it less general than neutralization. Elimination reactions are not typical for carboxylic acids; these usually involve the loss of small molecules (like water) but are more characteristic of other functional groups. Furthermore, although carboxylic acids can be oxidized, this reaction pertains