Acetic acid new world encyclopedia

Acetic acid is a colorless liquid with a pungent, sour smell. It is a weak organic acid and is the main component of vinegar. Here is a summary of acetic acid from the New World Encyclopedia:

Chemical Properties

Acetic acid is a carboxylic acid with the chemical formula CH3COOH. It is a weak acid, meaning it does not fully dissociate in water, and has a pH of around 2.4. It is a polar molecule, with a hydrophilic (water-loving) head and a hydrophobic (water-fearing) tail.

Physical Properties

Acetic acid is a colorless liquid with a characteristic pungent, sour smell. It has a melting point of 16.7°C (62.1°F) and a boiling point of 118.1°C (243.6°F). It is highly soluble in water and has a density of 1.049 g/cm3.

Occurrence

Acetic acid is found naturally in many foods and beverages, including fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. It is also produced by the fermentation of sugars by bacteria, such as those found in the gut of certain insects.

Uses

Acetic acid has many uses, including:

• Food and beverage industry: Acetic acid is used as a preservative and flavoring agent in foods and beverages, such as pickles, sauces, and vinegar.
• Pharmaceuticals: Acetic acid is used as a solvent and a reactant in the production of certain medications.
• Cleaning products: Acetic acid is used as a cleaning agent and disinfectant in many household and industrial cleaning products.
• Industrial processes: Acetic acid is used as a reactant in the production of plastics, fibers, and other chemicals.

History

Acetic acid has been known since ancient times, with evidence of its use dating back to the ancient Egyptians and Greeks. It was first isolated and characterized in the 16th century by the German alchemist Andreas Libavius.

Safety

Acetic acid is generally considered safe to handle and use, but it can be irritating to the skin and eyes. It is also a flammable liquid and should be handled in well-ventilated areas.

References

• "Acetic acid." New World Encyclopedia. Retrieved [date].
• "Acetic acid." Wikipedia. Retrieved [date].
• "Acetic acid." Sigma-Aldrich. Retrieved [date].

Note: The references provided are general sources and may not be specific to the New World Encyclopedia.