Question detail
What is the molecular formula of ethanoic acid?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Reactions of alkenes and alcohols (chemistry only)
Question
- A. C2H4O2
- B. C2H6O
- C. C3H6O3
- D. C2H2O
Answer
The correct option is C2H4O2.
Explanation
The correct option is C2H4O2. C2H4O2 is correct because it directly supports the approved learning objective to represent carboxylic acids in displayed, structural and molecular formula forms. This belongs to Carboxylic acids within Reactions of alkenes and alcohols (chemistry only), so the answer must use the correct organic chemistry context. The other options are incorrect when they confuse the organic family, formula type, reaction condition, product, or property being tested. Keep molecular formula, structural formula, displayed formula, and general formula distinct. Do not confuse alkanes with alkenes, saturated with unsaturated, cracking with combustion, polymers with monomers, or hydrocarbons with oxygen-containing alcohols and carboxylic acids. When formulae are used, preserve the stored notation exactly and explain the GCSE chemistry idea in words rather than using unsupported displayed-formula diagrams.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Carboxylic Acid Representation
Students often confuse the displayed formula of carboxylic acids with their structural formula, leading to incorrect representations.
Review the differences between displayed and structural formulae, ensuring to practice drawing both for carboxylic acids, focusing on the –COOH functional group.
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