Acetic acid, also known as
ethanoic acid, is a clear, colorless liquid with a pungent odor.
1. Chemical Name: Acetic Acid
2. Common Names: Ethanoic Acid
3. Chemical Formula: CH3COOH
4. CAS Number: 64-19-7
5. Molecular Weight: Approximately
60.05 g/mol
6. Physical Properties:
-
Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid
- Odor:
Pungent vinegar-like odor
- Density:
Approximately 1.049 g/cm3 (at 20°C)
- Melting
Point: Approximately 16.6°C
- Boiling
Point: Approximately 118-119°C
-
Solubility: Miscible with water, ethanol, ether, and most organic solvents
7. Chemical Properties:
- Acetic
acid is a weak organic acid that dissociates partially in aqueous solution to
produce hydrogen ions and acetate ions.
- It
reacts with bases to form salts known as acetates.
- Acetic
acid can undergo esterification reactions to form esters, which are commonly
used in flavorings and fragrances.
8. Concentration:
- Commercially available acetic acid solutions vary
in concentration, commonly ranging from about 4% to 99%.
- Acetic
acid with a concentration of 99% is considered glacial acetic acid, which means
it is essentially pure acetic acid with minimal water content.
9. Production:
- Acetic acid can be produced through various
methods, including methanol carbonylation, acetaldehyde oxidation, and
fermentation of sugars.
- The
methanol carbonylation process is the most common industrial method, involving
the reaction of methanol with carbon monoxide in the presence of a catalyst to
produce acetic acid.
10. Uses:
-
Chemical Intermediates: Acetic acid is a versatile chemical intermediate used
in the production of various chemicals, including vinyl acetate monomer (VAM),
acetic anhydride, and cellulose acetate.
- Food
and Beverage: Acetic acid is a key component of vinegar, which is used as a
condiment and food preservative.
-
Pharmaceuticals: Acetic acid is used in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals,
including acetaminophen (paracetamol) and aspirin.
-
Industrial Applications: Acetic acid is used in textile, dyeing, and printing
industries, as well as in the production of synthetic fibers and plastics.
11. Safety:
- Acetic
acid is corrosive and can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory
tract.
- Proper
handling and personal protective equipment (PPE) are essential when working
with acetic acid, especially in concentrated forms.
-
Ingestion or inhalation of concentrated acetic acid can cause severe burns and
respiratory damage, and should be avoided.
- Dilute
acetic acid (such as vinegar) is generally safe for culinary and household use
when used appropriately.
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