Question

what are the advantages and disadvantages of ethanoic acid as a de-scaler

Answer 1

Advantages:

- Not toxic. (Acetic acid is found in vinegar which is used to flavor the food we eat.)

- Cheap cost

- Ready availability.

- Not toxic products of reaction

$$2 \mathrm{CH_3COOH_{(aq)}} + \mathrm{CaCO_3(s)} \rightarrow (\mathrm{CH_3COO})_2\mathrm{Ca(aq)} + \mathrm{CO_2(g)} + \mathrm{H_2O_{(l)}}$$

Disadvantages:

- Acid shows volatility in solutions. (This process reduces the concentration).

- Weak acid