1. What Is Acetic Acid?

Acetic acid is an organic compound with the chemical formula CH₃COOH. It is a colorless liquid that is the main component of vinegar and is classified as a carboxylic acid.

2. Chemical Structure

The molecular formula of acetic acid is:

Structural Components:

• Methyl group (CH₃)
• Carboxyl group (COOH)
• Molecular weight: 60.05 g/mol
• IUPAC name: Ethanoic acid

Explanation: The structure consists of a methyl group attached to a carboxyl functional group, making it the second simplest carboxylic acid after formic acid.

3. Properties of Acetic Acid

Physical Properties: Clear, colorless liquid with a pungent, vinegar-like odor. Boiling point: 118°C, melting point: 16.6°C.

Chemical Properties: Weak acid (pKa = 4.76), miscible with water, ethanol, and ether. Corrosive to metals and tissue.

4. Common Uses

Industrial: Production of vinyl acetate monomer, acetic anhydride, and ester production.

Household: Main component of vinegar (4-8% solution), used in cooking and cleaning.

Laboratory: Chemical reagent and solvent in various chemical processes.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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: 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.

Q3: How is acetic acid produced?
A: Industrially through methanol carbonylation, and naturally through bacterial fermentation of ethanol.

Q4: What are the other names for acetic acid?
A: Ethanoic acid, methane carboxylic acid, and systematically as acetic acid.

Q5: Can acetic acid conduct electricity?
A: Pure acetic acid is a poor conductor, but its aqueous solutions can conduct electricity due to ionization.