Acetic Acid vs. Acetic Anhydride: What's the Difference?
Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Janet White || Published on December 2, 2023
Acetic acid is a weak organic acid known for its vinegar smell, while acetic anhydride is a derivative of acetic acid used as an acetylating agent in chemical synthesis.
Key Differences
Acetic acid, with the chemical formula CH₃COOH, is a colorless liquid with a pungent vinegar-like smell, used in vinegar and as a chemical reagent. Acetic anhydride, or (CH₃CO)₂O, is a colorless liquid used in the manufacture of cellulose acetate and as a reagent in organic synthesis.
Acetic acid is known for its sour taste and is a key component in the food industry, particularly in vinegar. Acetic anhydride, on the other hand, is primarily used in industrial applications, such as in the production of aspirin and acetaminophen.
In terms of chemical structure, acetic acid contains a single acetyl group attached to a carboxyl group. Acetic anhydride consists of two acetyl groups linked by an oxygen atom, making it more reactive than acetic acid.
Acetic acid has a moderate acidity and is often used as a preservative and flavoring agent. Acetic anhydride, due to its reactivity, is used in acetylation reactions to introduce acetyl groups into organic compounds.
In the laboratory, acetic acid is frequently used as a solvent and a reactant in various chemical reactions. Acetic anhydride is used as an acetylating agent in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and other organic compounds.
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Comparison Chart
Chemical Formula
CH₃COOH
(CH₃CO)₂O
Use
Vinegar, food preservative, reagent
Chemical synthesis, acetylating agent
Physical Properties
Colorless liquid, vinegar smell
Colorless liquid, strong acetic odor
Chemical Reactivity
Less reactive, weak acid
More reactive, strong acetylating agent
Primary Applications
Food industry, laboratory solvent
Pharmaceutical synthesis, cellulose acetate production
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Acetic Acid and Acetic Anhydride Definitions
Acetic Acid
Acetic acid is used in the production of various chemicals.
Acetic acid is a starting material in the manufacture of acetate esters.
Acetic Anhydride
Acetic anhydride is used in the production of cellulose acetate.
Acetic anhydride is a key ingredient in manufacturing photographic film.
Acetic Acid
Acetic acid is used as a solvent in the chemical industry.
Acetic acid is employed in the synthesis of various organic compounds.
Acetic Anhydride
Acetic anhydride is a derivative of acetic acid in chemical synthesis.
Acetic anhydride reacts with alcohols to form acetate esters.
Acetic Acid
Acetic acid acts as a preservative in food products.
Acetic acid is added to pickles to enhance their shelf life.
Acetic Anhydride
Acetic anhydride is involved in the acetylation of organic compounds.
In the lab, acetic anhydride is used to introduce acetyl groups into molecules.
Acetic Acid
Acetic acid is a weak organic acid used in vinegar.
Acetic acid gives salad dressings their tangy flavor.
Acetic Anhydride
Acetic anhydride is an organic compound used as an acetylating agent.
Acetic anhydride is used in the synthesis of aspirin.
Acetic Acid
Acetic acid is a component in household vinegar.
Cleaning with acetic acid is effective due to its acidic properties.
Acetic Anhydride
Acetic anhydride is more reactive than acetic acid.
Acetic anhydride rapidly reacts with water to form acetic acid.
FAQs
What are the uses of acetic anhydride?
Acetic anhydride is used in chemical synthesis, especially in making aspirin and acetaminophen.
How is acetic acid produced?
Acetic acid is produced both synthetically and by bacterial fermentation.
Can acetic anhydride be found in food?
Acetic anhydride is not typically found in food; it's used in industrial applications.
Is acetic anhydride corrosive?
Acetic anhydride can be corrosive and should be handled with care.
How does acetic acid react with metals?
Acetic acid can react with certain metals to form acetates and hydrogen gas.
Is acetic anhydride flammable?
Acetic anhydride is flammable and should be kept away from heat sources.
What is acetic acid?
Acetic acid is a weak organic acid, commonly found in vinegar.
What is the role of acetic anhydride in acetylation reactions?
Acetic anhydride is used to introduce acetyl groups into organic molecules.
What is acetic anhydride?
Acetic anhydride is a chemical compound used as an acetylating agent in organic synthesis.
Is acetic acid safe for consumption?
In diluted form, like vinegar, acetic acid is safe for consumption.
What is the pH of acetic acid?
The pH of acetic acid varies based on concentration but is typically acidic.
Can acetic acid be used for cleaning?
Yes, acetic acid, especially in the form of vinegar, is commonly used for cleaning.
Can acetic acid be used in baking?
Acetic acid is not typically used in baking, but vinegar, which contains acetic acid, is.
Can acetic acid be mixed with water?
Yes, acetic acid is miscible with water in all proportions.
What safety measures are needed for acetic anhydride?
Use gloves and eye protection, and handle acetic anhydride in a well-ventilated area.
What happens when acetic anhydride is hydrolyzed?
When hydrolyzed, acetic anhydride converts into acetic acid.
What are the health effects of acetic acid exposure?
Exposure to concentrated acetic acid can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system.
How is acetic anhydride stored safely?
Store acetic anhydride in a cool, dry place, away from water and heat.
What is the boiling point of acetic anhydride?
The boiling point of acetic anhydride is about 140°C (284°F).
What is the boiling point of acetic acid?
The boiling point of acetic acid is about 118°C (244°F).
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
