What is the Difference Between Methanoic Acid and Ethanoic Acid?

Methanoic acid and ethanoic acid are both carboxylic acids, but they have different chemical structures and properties. The key difference between the two is the presence of a hydrogen atom in methanoic acid and a methyl group in ethanoic acid, both bonded to a carboxylic acid group. Here are the main differences between methanoic acid and ethanoic acid:

1. Chemical Structure: Methanoic acid, also known as formic acid, has the general chemical formula HCOOH, indicating that it consists of a carboxylic acid group bonded to a hydrogen atom. Ethanoic acid, also known as acetic acid, has the chemical formula CH3COOH, showing that it consists of a methyl group bonded to a carboxylic acid group.
2. Acidity: Methanoic acid is a stronger acid than ethanoic acid. The pKa value for methanoic acid is 3.75, while the pKa value for ethanoic acid is 4.76. The lower the pKa value, the stronger the acid. The difference in acidity is due to the stability of the anions formed when the acids dissociate. Ethanoic acid re-forms more easily from its ions, making it a weaker acid.
3. Differentiation: Methanoic acid and ethanoic acid can be differentiated using tests such as Fehling's test and iodoform test.

In summary, methanoic acid and ethanoic acid are both carboxylic acids with different chemical structures and acidity levels. Methanoic acid has a hydrogen atom bonded to a carboxylic acid group, while ethanoic acid has a methyl group bonded to a carboxylic acid group. Methanoic acid is a stronger acid than ethanoic acid.

Comparative Table: Methanoic Acid vs Ethanoic Acid

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

Methanoic acid, also known as formic acid, is the simplest carboxylic acid with a carboxylic acid group bonded to a hydrogen atom. Ethanoic acid, also known