A process for the oxidation of a C.sub.2 to C.sub.4 alkane to produce the corresponding alkene and carboxylic acid which process comprises separation of the alkene from a mixture of the alkene, the alkane and oxygen by absorption in a metallic salt solution, and recovery of an alkene-rich stream from the metallic salt solution. Integrated processes for the production of alkyl carboxylate and alkenyl carboxylate, which processes comprise oxidation of a C.sub.2 to C.sub.4 alkane to produce the corresponding alkene and carboxylic acid, separation of the alkene from a mixture of the alkene, the alkane and oxygen by absorption in a metallic salt solution, and recovery of an alkene-rich stream from the metallic salt solution for use in production of alkyl carboxylate or alkenyl carboxylate.