jyut3 syun1乙酸

Jyutpingjyut3 syun1
Yaleyut syūn

Definition

Ethanoic acid; acetic acid, the substance that gives vinegar its sour taste, with the chemical formula CH₃COOH.

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How it's used

Commonly referred to as 醋酸 in everyday contexts, as it is the primary component of vinegar. While 乙酸 is the formal chemical name used in scientific or industrial settings, most people will simply call it 醋 if they are talking about the kitchen ingredient. It is essential to distinguish this from 乙醇, which is alcohol, to avoid confusion in laboratory or household safety discussions.

Measure word

zeon1jēun

Examples

The smell of this ethanoic acid is very strong.

Common phrases

industrial ethanoic acid
diluted ethanoic acid

Common mistake

Learners often confuse 乙酸 with 乙醇 because both start with 乙 in their chemical names. Remember that 乙酸 is acidic and sour, while 乙醇 is the alcohol found in beverages.

Grammar color guide

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