Question

Explain the modern method of industrial production of acetic acid. Also write any two properties and uses.

Answer 1

Preparation of acetic acid:
Methanol is reacted with carbon monoxide in the presence of the catalyst Iodine-Rhodium$(I_2-Rh)$ which gives acetic acid
as a product.
$\underset{Methanol}{C{H}_{3}OH}+\underset{Carbonmonoxide}{CO}\stackrel{[I_2-Rh]}{\to }\underset{EthanoicacidorAceticacid}{C{H}_{3}COOH}$
Properties of acetic acid:
i. Acetic acid is a colouless liquid.
ii. It has a sour smell and is soluble in water.
iii. The boiling point of acetic acid is $391$K.
iv. When acetic acid reacts with a base(e.g. sodium hydroxide), salt(e.g. sodium acetate) and water are formed.
$C{H}_{3}COOH+NaOH\to C{H}_{3}COONa+H_{2}O$
Uses of acetic acid:
i. In the preparation of white lead.
ii. As a good laboratory agent.
iii. In the preparation of vinegar.