C2H5SO3H

C2H5SO3H, also known as ethanesulfonic acid, is an organic compound with the chemical formula CH3CH2SO3H. It is a strong organic acid and a member of the sulfonic acid family. In its pure form, ethanesulfonic acid is a colorless liquid or crystalline solid. It is soluble in water and polar organic solvents. The structure consists of an ethyl group (C2H5) attached to a sulfonic acid group (SO3H).

Ethanesulfonic acid finds applications in various industrial processes. It can be used as a catalyst in organic synthesis, particularly in reactions involving esterification and polymerization. Its strong acidic nature makes it effective in promoting these transformations. Additionally, ethanesulfonic acid is employed in the production of surfactants and detergents, where its hydrophilic sulfonic acid group contributes to their cleaning properties. It also serves as an electrolyte in certain electrochemical applications. The compound's reactivity stems from the highly polar S-O bonds and the acidic proton.