Glacial acetic acid is a highly concentrated form of acetic acid, typically containing 99.5-100% acetic acid. It is a colorless liquid with a strong, pungent smell.
| IUPAC Name | Acetic Acid |
| Molecular Formula | C2H4O2 |
| CAS number | 64-19-7 |
| Synonyms | Acetic acid, Ethanoic acid, Methanecarboxylic acid, Vinegar acid |
| InChI | InChI=1S/C2H4O2/c1-2(3)4/h1H3,(H,3,4) |
Acetic Acid Properties
Glacial Acetic Acid molar mass
The molar mass of glacial acetic acid is 60.05 g/mol. This means that one mole of acetic acid weighs 60.05 grams. The molar mass is calculated by adding up the atomic weights of all the atoms in the chemical formula, which in this case is C2H4O2.
Glacial Acetic Acid boiling point
The boiling point of acetic acid is 118.1°C (244.58°F). This means that at this temperature, acetic acid changes from a liquid to a gas state. The boiling point of a substance is affected by various factors such as pressure and impurities, but acetic acid has a relatively low boiling point compared to other organic compounds.
Glacial Acetic Acid melting point
The melting point of acetic acid is at 16.73°C and normal boiling point at 117.9°C.
Glacial Acetic Acid density g/ml
The density of acetic acid is 1.049 g/ml. This means that one milliliter of acetic acid weighs 1.049 grams. The density of a substance is affected by its temperature and pressure, but acetic acid is relatively dense compared to other organic compounds.
Glacial Acetic Acid molecular weight
The molecular weight of glacial acetic acid is 60.05 g/mol. This means that one mole of acetic acid weighs 60.05 grams. The molecular weight of a substance is the same as its molar mass, and it is calculated by adding up the atomic weights of all the atoms in the chemical formula. In the case of acetic acid, the molecular weight is C2H4O2.
| Appearance | Clear, colorless liquid |
| Specific Gravity | 1.049 (20°C) |
| Color | Clear, colorless |
| Odor | Strong, pungent, vinegar-like |
| Molar Mass | 60.052 g/mol |
| Density | 1.05 g/cm3 (20°C) |
| Melting Point | -16.6°C |
| Boiling Point | 118.1°C |
| Flash Point | 16.1°C (closed cup) |
| Water Solubility | Miscible |
| Solubility | Miscible with most organic solvents |
| Vapour Pressure | 40.5 kPa (20°C) |
| Vapour Density | 2.02 (air = 1) |
| PKa | 4.76 |
| PH | 2.4 (1M solution) |
Glacial Acetic Acid Safety and Hazards
Acetic acid is a highly corrosive and toxic substance that can cause severe skin and eye irritation, chemical burns, and respiratory problems if not handled properly. It should always be handled with gloves, goggles, and a lab coat to protect against skin and eye contact. It should also be stored in a cool, dry place away from heat and open flames to avoid potential explosions. It is important to always follow proper safety protocols and use the correct PPE when handling acetic acid.
| Hazard Symbol | Corrosive |
| Safety Description | Can cause severe skin burns and eye damage |
| UN ID | UN2689 |
| HS Code | 2915.11.00 |
| Hazard Class | 8 |
| Packing Group | II |
| Toxicity | High |
Glacial Acetic Acid Production Methods
Acetic acid can be prepared through the oxidation of ethanol or acetaldehyde. The most common method is the oxidation of ethanol using a catalyst such as copper chromite. The reaction is typically carried out at a high temperature (around 200-250°C) and under a high pressure of oxygen. The resulting liquid is then distilled to separate the acetic acid from any remaining ethanol or water. Another method is the carbonylation of methanol using a catalyst such as rhodium, which produces acetic acid as a byproduct. Both methods require strict control of the reaction conditions to achieve high purity of the final product.
Glacial Acetic Acid Uses
Acetic acid is used in analytical chemistry for the estimation of weakly alkaline substances such as organic amides. Acetic acid is a much weaker base than water, so the amide behaves as a strong base in this medium. Diluted, acetic acid is used in preservation and canning of pickles and other vegetables. It is also used as a descaling agent for cleaning. Along with cleaning and canning, diluted acetic acid can treat or prevent bacterial or fungal outer ear infections.