How would you differentiate between ethanol and ethanoic acid?

Question

Addison Armstrong · Accepted Answer

Ethanoic acid has got #-COOH#,carboxylic group , so it acts with aqueous solution of #NaHCO_3#and produce effervescence of #CO_2# gas.This does not occur in case of Ethanol as it is neutral in nature. Thus they may be distingushed. #CH_3COOH +NaHCO_3->CH_3COONa +CO_2uparrow#

Addison Armstrong · Answer

undefined Ethanol is an alcohol, while ethanoic acid is a carboxylic acid. Ethanol has the chemical formula C2H5OH, and ethanoic acid has the formula CH3COOH. Ethanol is used as a solvent and for recreational purposes, whereas ethanoic acid is primarily employed in industries, particularly in the production of vinegar. Ethanol has a milder odor, while ethanoic acid has a pungent vinegar-like smell. Ethanol is a colorless liquid, whereas ethanoic acid is a colorless to pale yellow liquid. Ethanol is neutral, while ethanoic acid is acidic.

HIX Tutor · Answer

undefined To tell ethanol and ethanoic acid apart, you can do this:

1. **Smell:** Ethanol smells sweet, while ethanoic acid smells sour like vinegar.
2. **Taste (only if safe):** Ethanol tastes sweet, and ethanoic acid tastes sour. But do not taste unless you know it's safe!
3. **pH Test:** Use pH paper. Ethanol is neutral (pH around 7) and ethanoic acid is acidic (pH below 7).
4. **Mix with Water:** Both mix well with water, but ethanoic acid might feel more sour.
5. **Test with Baking Soda:** Add baking soda. If it fizzes, it is ethanoic acid!

Be careful and use safe tools!