Which one of the following does NOT contain COOH group ?

Which one of the following does NOT contain COOH group ?

Citric acid
Lactic acid
Tartaric acid
Ascorbic acid
This question was previously asked in
UPSC CAPF – 2019
The correct option is D.
The question asks which of the listed compounds does NOT contain a carboxylic acid group (-COOH). Citric acid (C₆H₈O₇) contains three -COOH groups. Lactic acid (C₃H₆O₃) contains one -COOH group and one hydroxyl (-OH) group. Tartaric acid (C₄H₆O₆) contains two -COOH groups and two -OH groups. Ascorbic acid (C₆H₈O₆), also known as Vitamin C, is a weak acid, but its acidity primarily arises from enol groups, not carboxylic acid groups. Its structure is based on a lactone ring and does not contain a -COOH functional group.
Citric acid is found in citrus fruits. Lactic acid is produced in muscles during strenuous exercise and found in sour milk. Tartaric acid is found in grapes and tamarinds. Ascorbic acid is a vital nutrient found in fruits and vegetables, essential for various metabolic processes.