Chemical Engineering Basics

Q1: Lead is most readily dissolved in

A acetic acid

B hydrochloric acid

C nitric acid

D sulphuric acid

ANS:A - acetic acid

Acetic acid, also known as ethanoic acid, is a weak organic acid with the chemical formula CH3COOH. It is a clear, colorless liquid with a pungent odor and is commonly found in household vinegar, which typically contains around 4-8% acetic acid. Here's an explanation of acetic acid:

  1. Chemical Structure: Acetic acid consists of two main functional groups: a carboxyl group (-COOH) and a methyl group (-CH3). The carboxyl group is responsible for its acidic properties, as it can donate a proton (H+) to a water molecule, forming a hydronium ion (H3O+) and an acetate ion (CH3COO-).
  2. Acidity: Acetic acid is a weak acid, meaning that it only partially dissociates into ions in solution. In water, acetic acid dissociates into hydrogen ions (H+) and acetate ions (CH3COO-). The equilibrium constant for this dissociation is known as the acid dissociation constant (Ka). Acetic acid has a Ka value of approximately 1.8 x 10^-5 at room temperature, indicating its weak acidic nature.
  3. Uses:
    • Food Industry: Acetic acid is widely used in the food industry as a preservative and flavoring agent. It is a key component of vinegar, which is used for pickling, salad dressings, and marinades.
    • Chemical Industry: Acetic acid is an important chemical intermediate in the production of various organic compounds, including plastics, pharmaceuticals, dyes, and solvents. It is commonly used in the manufacture of vinyl acetate, acetic anhydride, and polyethylene terephthalate (PET).
    • Laboratory: Acetic acid is frequently used in laboratory settings as a solvent, reagent, or pH regulator. It is often employed in chemical synthesis, titrations, and as a cleaning agent.
  4. Properties:
    • Solubility: Acetic acid is miscible with water in all proportions, meaning that it can dissolve completely in water to form a homogeneous solution.
    • Boiling Point: The boiling point of acetic acid is relatively low, around 118°C (244°F), making it volatile at room temperature.
    • Reactivity: Acetic acid is reactive with metals, particularly reactive metals like alkali metals and alkaline earth metals, producing hydrogen gas and metal acetates.
Overall, acetic acid is a versatile compound with a wide range of applications in various industries, owing to its mild acidity, solubility, and chemical reactivity.



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