Difference between carbonic acid and acetic acid?

Answer 1

Even though both are considered weak carboxylic acids (signified by COOH) ,Acetic acid (formula C2O2H4) contains the "acetyl" group - a methyl group attached to a ketone - [CH3-CO-R; "R" represent the "rest" of the molecule] attached to a hydroxyl [R=OH], while carbonic acid is a mirror image of itself (formula CO3H2 - Hydroxyl [R-OH] attached to a ketone [C double bonded to O]] attached to hydroxyl - HO-CO-OH). Acetic acid (common use: 5% AcOH in water IS ditilled vinegar), is much stronger than Carbonic acid (common use: Carbon dioxide in water; carbonated water). If carbonic acid wasn't very acidic, it could not be used in beverages without a "buffer" to make it palatable (a buffer changes the pH - in this case, to something more neutral instead of a low number). I hope this helps you to understand the differences - think vinegar (acetic acid) vs. carbonated water/seltzer (carbonic acid)...taste the two...you should understand the difference then!

Answer 2

Carbonic acid is formed when carbon dioxide dissolves in water, resulting in a weak acid that contributes to the acidity of Carbonated Beverages. Acetic acid, on the other hand, is a carboxylic acid commonly found in vinegar and has a distinct sour taste and smell. Both acids are weak acids but have different chemical structures and properties.