What are the by-products of ethanoic acid reactions?

The by-products of ethanoic acid reactions depend on the type of reaction, but often include water, carbon dioxide, and other organic compounds.

Ethanoic acid, also known as acetic acid, is a common organic acid that can participate in a variety of chemical reactions. The by-products of these reactions depend on the specific type of reaction and the reactants involved.

In a neutralisation reaction, ethanoic acid reacts with a base to produce a salt and water. For example, when ethanoic acid reacts with sodium hydroxide, the products are sodium ethanoate (a salt) and water.

In an esterification reaction, ethanoic acid reacts with an alcohol to produce an ester and water. For instance, when ethanoic acid reacts with ethanol, the products are ethyl ethanoate (an ester) and water.

In a reaction with carbonates or hydrogen carbonates, ethanoic acid produces a salt, water, and carbon dioxide. For example, when ethanoic acid reacts with sodium carbonate, the products are sodium ethanoate, water, and carbon dioxide.

In a redox reaction, ethanoic acid can be oxidised to produce carbon dioxide and water. However, this reaction requires a strong oxidising agent and is not common under normal conditions.

In a substitution reaction, ethanoic acid can react with an alcohol in the presence of a strong acid catalyst to produce an ester and water. This is similar to the esterification reaction, but the conditions are different.

In summary, the by-products of ethanoic acid reactions can vary widely, but often include water, carbon dioxide, and various organic compounds. The exact by-products depend on the specific reaction conditions and the reactants involved.