Which acid is known as ethanoic acid?

Ethanoic acid, commonly referred to as acetic acid, is a colorless liquid organic compound with a distinct pungent odor. It is characterized by its chemical formula CH₃COOH. Ethanoic acid is widely recognized for its use in cooking, particularly in vinegar, where it contributes to the sour taste.

The name "ethanoic acid" comes from the compound's structure, which includes a two-carbon chain (ethane) with a carboxylic acid functional group (–COOH). This classification places it in the family of carboxylic acids, and it is essential for various biological and chemical processes.

Other choices represent different types of carboxylic acids but have distinct structures and properties. For instance, butanoic acid has four carbon atoms, formic acid has just one, and propanoic acid consists of three carbon atoms. None of these share the two-carbon chain characteristic of ethanoic acid, making acetic acid the correct identification for ethanoic acid.