1. What Is Acetic Acid?

Acetic 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.

2. Chemical Structure

The molecular structure consists of:

Where:

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

Explanation: The carboxyl group (-COOH) makes it a weak acid that can donate a proton (H⁺) in aqueous solutions.

3. Properties Of Acetic Acid

Physical Properties: Colorless liquid, boiling point 118°C, melting point 16.6°C, miscible with water, ethanol, and ether.

Chemical Properties: Weak acid (pKa = 4.76), forms acetate salts with bases, undergoes typical carboxylic acid reactions.

4. Common Uses

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

Household: Main component of vinegar (4-8% solution), food preservative, cleaning agent.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the difference between acetic acid and vinegar?
A: Vinegar is a diluted solution of acetic acid (typically 4-8%) in water, while acetic acid refers to the pure compound.

Q2: Is acetic acid dangerous?
A: Concentrated acetic acid is corrosive and can cause burns. Vinegar (diluted acetic acid) is safe for consumption and household use.

Q3: How is acetic acid produced industrially?
A: Mainly through methanol carbonylation or by bacterial fermentation of ethanol for vinegar production.

Q4: What are acetate salts?
A: Salts formed when acetic acid reacts with bases, such as sodium acetate (CH₃COONa) or calcium acetate.

Q5: Can acetic acid conduct electricity?
A: Pure acetic acid is a poor conductor, but aqueous solutions can conduct electricity due to ionization into H⁺ and CH₃COO⁻ ions.