What is the Difference Between Ethanol and Ethanoic Acid?

Ethanol and ethanoic acid are two different organic compounds with distinct properties and characteristics. Here are the main differences between them:

1. Functional Group: Ethanol contains a hydroxyl group (-OH), while ethanoic acid contains a carboxyl group (-COOH).
2. Classification: Ethanol is an alcohol, specifically an alkanol, and ethanoic acid is a carboxylic acid.
3. Molecular Formula: The molecular formula of ethanol is C2H5OH, while the molecular formula of ethanoic acid is C2H4O2.
4. Melting Point: Ethanol has a lower melting point than ethanoic acid.
5. Physical State: Ethanol is a liquid at room temperature, whereas ethanoic acid is a solid at room temperature.
6. Reactivity: Ethanol is more reactive than ethanoic acid.
7. Reaction with Sodium Bicarbonate: Ethanol does not react with sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3), while ethanoic acid reacts with NaHCO3 to produce carbon dioxide and sodium acetate.
8. Reaction with Acidified Potassium Permanganate: Ethanol is oxidized to ethanoic acid in the presence of acidified potassium permanganate (KMnO4), while no reaction takes place with ethanoic acid in the presence of KMnO4.
9. Odor: Ethanol has a slightly sweet odor, while ethanoic acid has a vinegar-like odor.

In summary, ethanol and ethanoic acid differ in their functional groups, classification, molecular formula, melting point, physical state, reactivity, and reactions with sodium bicarbonate and acidified potassium permanganate.

Comparative Table: Ethanol vs Ethanoic Acid

Here is a table comparing the differences between ethanol and ethanoic acid:

Ethanol, also known as ethyl alcohol, is an alcohol with a molecular formula C2H5OH and an ethyl group. It is a colorless liquid with a pleasant odor and a boiling point of 78.5°C. Ethanol is produced through fermentation of sugars and is a component of alcoholic beverages.

Ethanoic acid, also known as acetic acid or ethylic acid, is a carboxylic acid with a molecular formula C2H4O2 and a methyl group. It is a colorless liquid with a vinegar-like smell and a boiling point of 118-119°C. Ethanoic acid is produced through the oxidation of ethanol. It is a weak acid and has a lower pH than ethanol.