Ethanoic Acid
Ethanoic acid is a carboxylic acid with formula CH3COOH.
Practice This ConceptMain explanation
Teacher explanation
Ethanoic acid is the acid found in vinegar in dilute form. Its special group is -COOH, which gives acidic properties. It reacts with bases and carbonates, so it is an important example for understanding acid behaviour in organic chemistry. Students should also remember that it is a weak acid, not a strong mineral acid.
Example
CH3COOH reacts with sodium hydrogen carbonate to release carbon dioxide gas, showing its acidic nature.
Simple analogy
COOH at the end means acid.
Common confusion
Students often confuse ethanoic acid with ethanol because both contain carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen.
Exam tip
Whenever you see -COOH, think carboxylic acid and acidic behaviour.
Answer writing and exam use
1-mark use
Write the exact meaning of ethanoic acid in one clean line.
2-mark use
Define ethanoic acid and add one example or condition.
3-mark use
Explain ethanoic acid, show the method or example, and mention the common mistake.
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