Ethanoic Acid (Properties) MCQs Quiz | Class 10
Class: X | Subject: Science (Code 086) | Unit: Unit I: Chemical Substances – Nature and Behaviour. This quiz covers the properties of Ethanoic Acid, including its odour, acidity, and chemical reactions suitable for school level. Attempt the questions to test your knowledge, check your score, and download the PDF answer key for revision.
Study Notes: Properties of Ethanoic Acid
Ethanoic acid, commonly known as acetic acid, is the second member of the carboxylic acid series. Its chemical formula is CH3COOH. It is a key topic in Class 10 Science under Carbon and its Compounds.
1. Physical Properties
- Odour: It has a pungent smell, characteristic of vinegar.
- State: It is a colourless liquid at room temperature.
- Solubility: It is soluble in water, alcohol, and ether in all proportions.
- Glacial Ethanoic Acid: The melting point of pure ethanoic acid is 290 K (17 degrees Celsius). Therefore, it often freezes during winter in cold climates, forming ice-like crystals. This pure form is called glacial ethanoic acid.
- Vinegar: A 5-8% solution of acetic acid in water is called vinegar and is used widely as a preservative in pickles.
2. Chemical Properties
Ethanoic acid is a weak acid compared to mineral acids like HCl. It turns blue litmus solution red.
| Reaction Type | Reactants | Products | Observation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Esterification | Ethanoic Acid + Ethanol (Acid catalyst) | Ester (Ethyl Ethanoate) + Water | Sweet fruity smell |
| Neutralization | Ethanoic Acid + Sodium Hydroxide | Sodium Ethanoate + Water | Salt formation |
| With Carbonates | Ethanoic Acid + Sodium Carbonate | Sodium Ethanoate + Water + CO2 | Brisk effervescence |
3. Key Reactions (School Level)
- Reaction with Sodium Carbonate/Bicarbonate: Ethanoic acid reacts with carbonates and hydrogencarbonates to give rise to a salt, carbon dioxide, and water. The gas evolved turns lime water milky.
- Saponification: Esters formed from ethanoic acid react in the presence of an acid or a base to give back the alcohol and carboxylic acid (or its salt). This is used in soap making.
Quick Revision List
- Functional Group: -COOH (Carboxylic Acid).
- Weak Acid: Does not ionize completely in water.
- Esterification produces sweet-smelling esters used in perfumes.
- CO2 gas is released when reacted with baking soda (Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate).
Extra Practice Questions
- Write the electron dot structure of ethanoic acid.
- Why does pure ethanoic acid freeze in winter?
- Differentiate between ethanol and ethanoic acid based on reaction with sodium carbonate.
- What is the role of concentrated sulphuric acid in esterification?
- How can you convert ethanol to ethanoic acid? (Oxidation)
Content created and reviewed by the CBSE Quiz Editorial Team based on the latest NCERT textbooks and CBSE syllabus. Our goal is to help students practice concepts clearly, confidently, and exam-ready through well-structured MCQs and revision content.