Decarboxylation is a chemical reaction that involves the removal of a carboxyl group (-COOH) from a molecule, resulting in the release of carbon dioxide (CO2). This process is essential in various biological and chemical pathways, including the metabolism of amino acids and the conversion of certain compounds in the Krebs cycle. In the context of organic chemistry, decarboxylation can occur through heating or chemical reactions, often leading to the formation of hydrocarbons or other useful compounds. It is a crucial step in the synthesis of many pharmaceuticals and in the production of biofuels.