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Acetic Acid Formula:
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Acetic acid, also known as ethanoic acid, is a simple carboxylic acid with the chemical formula CH₃COOH. It is the main component of vinegar (after water) and has a distinctive sour taste and pungent smell.
The molecular structure of acetic acid consists of:
Where:
Explanation: The structure features a carboxylic acid group (-COOH) attached to a methyl group (-CH₃), making it the second simplest carboxylic acid after formic acid.
Physical Properties: Colorless liquid, boiling point: 118°C, melting point: 16.6°C, density: 1.05 g/cm³. Pure acetic acid is called glacial acetic acid because it freezes into ice-like crystals at temperatures below 16.6°C.
Applications: Used in vinegar production (4-8% solutions), chemical synthesis, food industry, pharmaceuticals, and as a solvent. Also used in the production of vinyl acetate monomer, acetic anhydride, and ester production.
Q1: What is the difference between acetic acid and vinegar?
A: Vinegar is a dilute solution of acetic acid (typically 4-8%) in water, while acetic acid refers to the pure chemical compound.
Q2: Why is pure acetic acid called glacial acetic acid?
A: It's called glacial because it freezes at 16.6°C, forming ice-like crystals that resemble glaciers.
Q3: Is acetic acid dangerous?
A: Concentrated acetic acid is corrosive and can cause burns, while dilute solutions like vinegar are safe for consumption and household use.
Q4: What are the industrial uses of acetic acid?
A: Major industrial uses include production of vinyl acetate, acetic anhydride, acetate esters, and as a solvent in various chemical processes.
Q5: How is acetic acid produced commercially?
A: Mainly through methanol carbonylation, where methanol and carbon monoxide react in the presence of a catalyst to produce acetic acid.