Properties and Uses of Ethanoic Acid Ethanoic acid ( Acetic acid ) CH3COOH : Ethanoic acid is most commonly known as acetic acid . Its dilute solution in water (5-8%) is known as vinegar, which is used for preserving food-sausage, pickles etc. Physical properties : (i) Ethanoic acid is vinegar smelling liquid. Ethanoic Acid (CH3COOH) which is also known as Acetic Acid is the most generally available acid. Its common name is Vinegar. Vinegar is a popular home product made from a solution of 5-8 % Ethanoic Acid in water. Ethanoic Acid is commonly used in kitchens as a preservative for foods. Ethanoic acid , commonly known as acetic acid , is a colorless liquid with a pungent odor. It's a weak organic acid found in vinegar and is used in various industrial applications. Learn about ethanoic acid , a two-carbon carboxylic acid also known as vinegar, its physical and chemical properties, structure and uses. Find sample questions, key terms and related articles on carboxylic acids.