Overview

Acetic acid (uh-SEE-tik AS-id) is a clear, colorless liquid with a sharp odor. In its pure form, the compound is also known as glacial acetic acid. Acetic acid is the primary active ingredient of vinegar, which typically consists of about five parts of acetic acid mixed with 95 parts of water. The compound's name comes from the Latin word for vinegar, acetum.

Key Facts

Other Names:

Ethanoic acid; methanecarboxylic acid; vinegar acid

Formula:

CH₃COOH

Elements:

Carbon, hydrogen, oxygen

Compound Type:

Carboxylic acid (organic)

State:

Liquid

Molecular Weight:

60.05 g/mol

Melting Point:

16.6°C (61.9°F)

Boiling Point:

117.9°C (244.2°F)

Solubility:

Soluble in water, alcohol, ether, acetone, benzene, and other organic solvents

Acetic acid, in the form of vinegar, has been known to humans for centuries. When fruit juices are allowed to stand for too long, or when they are fermented to make wine, vinegar forms. The use...