What is C2H4O2? Important Knowledge about C2H4O2.

  1. Definition of C2H4O2
    C2H4O2, also known as acetic acid, ethanoic acid or commonly referred to as acetate acid. Its English name is acetic acid. It is a carboxylic acid with the molecular formula CH3COOH. The structure of the molecule includes 2 carbon atoms, 4 hydrogen atoms, and 2 oxygen atoms. Its ionic structure is CH3COO-, an acetate ion. The atomic mass of C2H4O2 is 60.052 g/mol.

  2. Properties: C2H4O2
    2.1 Physical properties of C2H4O2:
    The natural state of C2H4O2 is liquid, colorless. The smell of acetate acid is distinctive, sharp, which can cause headaches if inhaled at high concentrations. Its pH falls around 2.4, indicating its acidic nature.
    2.2 Chemical properties of C2H4O2:
    C2H4O2 has the ability to react with metals to form acetate salts and hydrogen gas.

  3. Common chemical equation of C2H4O2
    An example of a reaction with metals: 2CH3COOH + Ca -> Ca(CH3COO)2 + H2↑

  4. Preparation of C2H4O2
    4.1 Laboratory preparation of C2H4O2:
    A method of preparing C2H4O2 in the laboratory is the reaction between ethyl alcohol and concentrated hot sulfuric acid.
    CH3CH2OH + H2SO4 -> CH3COOH + H2O
    4.2 Industrial preparation of C2H4O2:
    Industrially, C2H4O2 is produced through the catalytic process from acetaldehyde in the presence of catalysts such as boron trifluoride acid.
    CH3CHO + 1/2O2 -> CH3COOH.

Leave a Comment