What are the products of ethanoic acid and alkali reactions?

The products of ethanoic acid and alkali reactions are a salt (usually a form of acetate) and water.

When ethanoic acid reacts with an alkali, a neutralisation reaction occurs. This is a type of chemical reaction where an acid and a base react to form a salt and water. The specific type of salt produced depends on the alkali used in the reaction. For example, if sodium hydroxide (an alkali) reacts with ethanoic acid, the products will be sodium acetate and water. The chemical equation for this reaction is: CH3COOH + NaOH → CH3COONa + H2O.

Ethanoic acid, also known as acetic acid, is a weak acid. This means it does not fully ionise in solution, and so its reactions with alkalis are not as vigorous as those of strong acids. However, the products of the reaction are the same - a salt and water. The salt produced is often referred to as an 'acetate', due to the acetate ion (CH3COO-) that is formed when ethanoic acid ionises.

The reaction between an acid and an alkali is an important concept in IGCSE Chemistry. It's a good example of a neutralisation reaction, which is a key part of understanding acids, bases and salts. Remember, the specific type of salt produced will depend on the alkali used, but the process and products of the reaction remain consistent.