# Ethanol can be oxidised to produce ethanoic acid. State the name of the functional group present in ethanoic acid, give the molecular formula of ethanoic acid, and state one use of ethanoic acid.

> Cambridge International IGCSE Chemistry (0620) — 11.7 Carboxylic acids · State · 4 marks

> Ethanoic acid is a carboxylic acid that can be produced by the oxidation of ethanol. It is a weak acid that reacts with alcohols to form esters.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Names the carboxyl group (–COOH) as the functional group in ethanoic acid
2. Gives the correct molecular formula of ethanoic acid
3. States a correct use of ethanoic acid (first creditworthy use)
4. States a second distinct correct use of ethanoic acid OR identifies that ethanoic acid is a weak acid (i.e. partially dissociates / does not fully ionise in water)

## Key terms

- [functional group](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/functional-group)
- [molecular formula](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/molecular-formula)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Cambridge International IGCSE Chemistry (0620)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "State" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/ethanol-can-be-oxidised-to-produce-b2db2a45) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.