CH3COOH is the chemical formula for acetic acid.
Acetic acid is the most important of the carboxylic acids. It is a weak acid, meaning it doesn't fully dissociate into ions in water. A dilute solution of acetic acid (approximately 5% by volume) produced by the fermentation and oxidation of natural carbohydrates is commonly known as vinegar. Salts, esters, or acylals derived from acetic acid are called acetates.
Here's a breakdown of its properties and uses:
- Chemical Structure: It consists of a methyl group (CH3) attached to a carboxyl group (COOH).
- Physical Properties: Acetic acid is a colorless liquid with a characteristic pungent odor.
- Vinegar: The most common application is in vinegar, used for cooking and preservation.
- Industrial Uses: It is a crucial reagent in the production of various chemicals, including vinyl acetate monomer (used in polymers), cellulose acetate (used in fibers and films), and various acetate esters (used as solvents).
- Chemical Formula: CH3COOH
- Molar Mass: 60.05 g/mol
- Acidity: A weak acid, with a pKa of 4.76.
Acetic acid's versatile properties make it essential in both household applications and large-scale industrial processes.
