The chemical formula for acetic acid is CH₃COOH. It is a colorless liquid organic compound that gives vinegar its sour taste and strong odor. Acetic acid is a key component in both the food industry and chemical manufacturing. In addition to being used as a preservative and flavoring agent in food, it serves as a baseline chemical for producing various other chemicals, including acetic anhydride and acetate esters. The compound can be produced synthetically through the carbonylation of methanol or biological fermentation processes. Its versatile applications make acetic acid a significant chemical in everyday products.