List out the uses of ethanoic acid

Answer: Ethanoic acid, also known as acetic acid, is a colorless liquid with a strong, sharp smell. When an amount (about 5-8%) of ethanoic acid is mixed with water, it forms vinegar. Vinegar is commonly used in cooking and also has antibacterial and antifungal properties.

Complete Answer:

Ethanoic acid belongs to the carboxylic acid group, which is represented by the formula R-COOH ( where R is an alkyl group). The chemical formula of ethanoic acid is CH₃COOH. 

Ethanoic acid has many important uses in daily life and industries due to its special properties. Here are some common uses: 

• Ethanoic acid is used to make vinegar, which acts as a food preservation and flavoring agent. 
• Vinegar is used to reduce high blood sugar.
• Ethanoic acid is used as a solvent for the production of camphor and cooking material.
• The petroleum industry uses ethanoic acid in refining processes and other chemical treatments. 
• Acetic acid is utilised in the food industry as both a preservative and a flavoring agent.
• Ethanoic acid is widely used in the petroleum industry.
• Acetic acid is used as a washer and cleaning agent.
• Acetic acid is often used in photography materials and solutions.

Note: Pure ethanoic acid is often called glacial acetic acid because it freezes easily at about 16°C. In cold weather, it looks like ice or a glacier, which is why it gets this name.

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