Acetic Acid
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| Chemical | |
| Acetic Acid | |
| Common Name(s): | Ethanoic Acid
Vinegar |
| Molecular Formula: | CH3COOH |
| Used For: | Dissolving calcium carbonate deposits
Increasing potency of kalkwasser Killing Aiptasia sp. |
| Caution: | Corrosive
Don't inhale fumes Avoid contact with skin and eyes |
| Material Safety Data Sheet: | Acetic acid |
Introduction
Acetic acid is a weak acid, with a pKa of 4.8. Even though it is referred to as a weak acid, due to it's high pKa, in it's concentrated form it is highly corrosive.
Acetic acid is commonly available in the diluted form of Vinegar, which contains around 4 to 8% acetic acid. For this reason it can be handled relatively safely without concern for acid burns.
Vinegar can be used as a cleaning agent (it will dissolve calcium carbonate deposits on surfaces), increasing the potency of saturated calcium hydroxide solutions (kalkwasser), and as an method of killing some pest anemones (Aiptasia).
