[News & Trends]:Acetic acid and glacial acetic acid in the laboratory: Analysis of the differences and applications between the two

When conducting chemical experiments in the laboratory, various reagents are often required, among which acetic acid and glacial acetic acid are one of the more common chemical reagents. Although acetic acid and glacial acetic acid seem very similar in name, there are significant differences in their use and properties in the laboratory


Acetic acid, also known as acetic acid, with the chemical formula CH3COOH, is a colorless liquid with a special sour taste. It can be prepared by the oxidation of ethanol or the reaction of sodium acetate with sulfuric acid. Acetic acid is a relatively mild acid that is often used as an acid catalyst or solvent in the laboratory. It can react with some alcohols to generate corresponding acetate esters; React with alkali to produce corresponding acetate. In addition, acetic acid can also be used to prepare acetate fibers, acetate salts, and other reagents


Unlike it, glacial acetic acid is a cooled aqueous solution of acetic acid, with the chemical formula CH3COOH · CH3COONa. Acetic acid is a colorless and transparent liquid with a high boiling point, which can maintain its liquid state at low temperatures. Therefore, it is often used as a reagent under low-temperature conditions in the laboratory. For example, in organic synthesis experiments, acetic acid often reacts with aldehydes or ketones, which can lower the reaction temperature, control the reaction rate and selectivity of the products. In addition, acetic acid can also be used as a solvent for substances such as hyaluronic acid and acetate fibers


The main difference between acetic acid and glacial acetic acid lies in their use and properties. Acetic acid, as a conventional acid catalyst and solvent, is used under relatively mild chemical reaction conditions. And acetic acid is mainly used under low-temperature reaction conditions, which can effectively control the reaction rate and selectivity of the products. Therefore, when used in the laboratory, it is necessary to choose acetic acid or glacial acetic acid according to specific experimental requirements


In summary, acetic acid and glacial acetic acid are commonly used chemical reagents in the laboratory. Although they have similar names, there are significant differences in their uses and properties. Understanding their differences can better guide laboratory work and ensure the smooth progress of experiments. As researchers, we should choose appropriate reagents according to the needs of experiments, and follow the principles of safe laboratory operations to ensure our own safety and the accuracy of experiments.