# Ethanol can be oxidised to form ethanoic acid. Ethanoic acid is a member of the carboxylic acid homologous series. Explain why ethanoic acid is classified as a weak acid rather than a strong acid, and describe one chemical reaction that shows ethanoic acid behaves as an acid.

> Edexcel GCSE Chemistry (1CH0) — 10.3 Alcohols and carboxylic acids (Chem only) · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Ethanoic acid does not fully/completely dissociate (ionise) in aqueous solution
2. Strong acids fully/completely dissociate in aqueous solution (contrasting with ethanoic acid)
3. Named correct reaction showing acidic behaviour — e.g. reacts with a carbonate / metal / alkali / base
4. Correct product(s) named for the chosen reaction — e.g. salt (named or 'a salt') AND carbon dioxide (if carbonate used); hydrogen (if metal used); salt and water (if alkali/base used)

## Key terms

- [weak acid](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/weak-acid)
- [carboxylic acid](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/carboxylic-acid)
- [ethanoic acid](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/ethanoic-acid)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Edexcel GCSE Chemistry (1CH0)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/ethanol-can-be-oxidised-to-form-e04aacb0) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.