To definitively prove the mechanism of the bicarbonate test, Acetic acid () is reacted with isotopic — Aldehydes Ketones and Carboxylic Acids Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

The bicarbonate test involves an acid-base reaction where the acidic proton from the carboxylic acid protonates the bicarbonate ion ($-HCO_3$) to form carbonic acid ($H_2CO_3$), which instantly decomposes into $H_2O$ and $CO_2$. Therefore, the carbon in the evolved $CO_2$ gas originates exclusively from the bicarbonate, carrying the C-14 label.