Ethanoic acid

A detailed article on Ethanoic acid for medical students

Ethanoic acid

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Chemical formula	CHNO
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Ethanoic acid, commonly known as acetic acid, is a colorless liquid organic compound with the chemical formula CH₃COOH. It is the main component of vinegar, apart from water, and has a distinctive sour taste and pungent smell. Ethanoic acid is an important chemical reagent and industrial chemical, used primarily in the production of polyvinyl acetate for wood glue, as well as synthetic fibers and fabrics.

Structure and Properties

Ethanoic acid is a simple carboxylic acid consisting of a methyl group attached to a carboxyl group. Its molecular structure can be represented as CH₃COOH. The carboxyl group (COOH) is responsible for the acidic properties of the compound, as it can donate a proton (H⁺) in solution.

Physical Properties

• Molecular weight: 60.05 g/mol
• Density: 1.049 g/cm³
• Melting point: 16.5 °C
• Boiling point: 118.1 °C
• Solubility: Miscible with water, ethanol, and ether

Chemical Properties

Ethanoic acid is a weak acid, meaning it partially dissociates in solution. It reacts with bases to form acetate salts and with alcohols to form esters. It can also undergo oxidation to form carbon dioxide and water.

Biological Role

In biological systems, ethanoic acid is a key intermediate in the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats. It is involved in the Krebs cycle (also known as the citric acid cycle), where it is converted into acetyl-CoA, a crucial molecule in energy production.

Industrial Production

Ethanoic acid is produced industrially by the carbonylation of methanol, a process that involves the reaction of methanol with carbon monoxide in the presence of a catalyst. This method is known as the Monsanto process. Another method is the oxidation of acetaldehyde.

Uses

Ethanoic acid is widely used in the production of chemical compounds. It is a precursor to polyvinyl acetate and cellulose acetate, which are used in the manufacture of synthetic fibers and plastics. It is also used as a solvent in the production of terephthalic acid, a precursor to polyethylene terephthalate (PET), used in plastic bottles and textiles.

Health Effects

Exposure to concentrated ethanoic acid can cause skin irritation and burns. Inhalation of vapors can lead to respiratory irritation. It is important to handle ethanoic acid with appropriate safety measures, including the use of personal protective equipment.

Also see

• Carboxylic acid
• Vinegar
• Krebs cycle
• Polyvinyl acetate
• Cellulose acetate