MCH3COO

MCH3COO is a general way to denote a metal acetate, a salt formed from acetic acid (CH3COOH) and a metal cation M+. When M is monovalent, the salt is written as MCH3COO; when the metal is divalent, the more common formula is (CH3COO)2M. In the solid state, metal acetates exist as ionic lattices consisting of metal cations and acetate anions; in water they typically dissociate into M+ and CH3COO−.

Structure and properties vary with the metal. Many acetates are soluble in water, though solubility depends on the specific metal and its coordination environment. Some acetates form hydrates or exhibit different crystal structures. They are generally stable at ordinary temperatures and can serve as sources of acetate in chemical syntheses or as catalysts in certain reactions.

Preparation methods are diverse but follow the principle of proton transfer or metathesis. A typical route is reaction of a metal hydroxide or oxide with acetic acid: M(OH)n + n CH3COOH → (CH3COO)nM + n H2O (monovalent M) or M(OH)2 + 2 CH3COOH → (CH3COO)2M + 2 H2O (divalent M). Alternatively, metathesis between soluble salts and acetate salts can yield the desired metal acetate.

Common examples include sodium acetate (NaCH3COO) and potassium acetate (KCH3COO), with other metals forming analogous acetates such as copper(I) acetate (CuCH3COO). Uses range from buffering agents and food additives to de-icing, textile and paper processing, and as catalysts or reagents in organic synthesis.

Safety considerations depend on the specific salt; acetates are generally of low to moderate toxicity and can be irritants to skin or eyes on contact. Proper handling and storage are advised.