As observed in the school laboratory, acetic acid is
As observed in the school laboratory, acetic acid is
Options
Acetic acid is colourless and smells like vinegar.
Marking Scheme
- 11 mark for selecting the correct option (B).
Hint
Think of the main component of vinegar used in kitchens.
Quick Oral Answer
Acetic acid is a colourless liquid with a pungent smell similar to vinegar.
Analysis & Explanation
Acetic acid (), listed in Table 4.1, is a clear, colourless liquid at room temperature. It has a very distinct, sharp, and pungent smell characteristic of vinegar, as vinegar is essentially a dilute solution of acetic acid. Option A is incorrect because it is not blue and does not have a fruity smell (esters have fruity smells). Option C is incorrect because it has a very strong, recognizable odour. Option D is incorrect because the 'rotten egg' smell is characteristic of hydrogen sulphide (), not acetic acid.
Common Mistakes
- 1Confusing the smell of acetic acid with the fruity smell of esters.
- 2Thinking acetic acid is naturally colored.
Interesting Facts
Pure acetic acid is called 'glacial acetic acid' because it freezes into ice-like crystals at temperatures below 290 K (17C).
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many marks does this question carry in CBSE Class 10 Science 2011?
This question carries 1 mark in the CBSE Class 10 Science 2011 examination.
Which chapter does this question come from in Science?
This question is from the chapter "Carbon and its Compounds" in the CBSE Class 10 Science syllabus.
What topic does this question cover in Science?
This question covers the topic "Properties of Carbon Compounds" from CBSE Class 10 Science.
What type of question is this in the CBSE Class 10 Science 2011 paper?
This is a MCQ question from Section B in the CBSE Class 10 Science 2011 paper.