Etyylihappo

Etyylihappo, commonly known as acetic acid, is a chemical compound with the formula CH3COOH. It is an organic acid, and it is the main component of vinegar apart from water. In its pure, undiluted form, it is a colorless liquid that has a strong, unpleasant smell and a sour taste. It is corrosive and can cause burns.

Etyylihappo is a weak acid, meaning it does not fully dissociate in water. It is an important chemical reagent and industrial chemical. It is used in the production of various products, including plastics, solvents, and pharmaceuticals. It is also used as a food additive, where it is labeled as E260. In the laboratory, it is often used as a solvent and as a source of acetate ions.

Industrially, etyylihappo is produced through several methods, including the carbonylation of methanol and the oxidation of acetaldehyde. It is also produced biologically through the fermentation of ethanol by acetic acid bacteria. This latter process is the basis for vinegar production. Etyylihappo is a ubiquitous substance, found naturally in plant exudates and produced by many microorganisms. Its presence in vinegar has made it a common household item for centuries, used not only in cooking but also for cleaning and preservation.