Acetic Acid

Acetic Acid, also known as ethanoic acid, is a clear, colorless liquid with a sharp, pungent odor. It is a weak organic acid composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, with the chemical formula CH3COOH. Acetic acid is commonly used in various industrial, household, and laboratory applications. In household settings, it is found in vinegar, which typically contains around 4-8% acetic acid. In industry, acetic acid is used as a solvent, chemical intermediate, and in the production of various chemicals, including vinyl acetate, acetic anhydride, and esters. It is also used in food preservation, dyeing, and as a descaling agent. In laboratories, acetic acid is utilized in biochemical and organic synthesis, as well as in titration experiments to determine the concentration of bases. Despite being a weak acid, concentrated acetic acid can be corrosive and must be handled with care.