CAS 141-78-6 Ethyl acetate (CH₃COOC₂H₅) is one of the world's most widely used organic solvents. It has fruity and sweet aromas, evaporates quickly, has low toxicity and excellent solubility, and is widely used in industries such as coatings, pharmaceuticals, and food processing.
In this article, we will explore the formula and structure of ethyl acetate, an organic compound that is primarily used as a solvent in various chemical reactions.
Structure & Formula of Ethyl Acetate CAS 141-78-6
Ethyl Acetate often abbreviated as EtOAc, EA, or ETAC, the chemical formula and the structural formula for ethyl acetate are outlined below.
Formula of Ethyl Ethanoate
The chemical formula of ethyl acetate is:
- Molecular Formula: C₄H₈O₂
- Condensed Formula: CH₃COOCH₂CH₃
Structure:
CH₃–COO–CH₂–CH₃

Ethyl Ethanoate contains both polar and nonpolar regions, and the oxygen atom imparts a moderate polarity, enabling it to dissolve a wide variety of substances. It is this structure that makes ethyl acetate a versatile solvent.
Properties of Ethyl Acetate
| Appearance | Colorless, transparent liquid |
| Odor | Sweet, fruity |
| Molecular Formula | C₄H₈O₂ |
| Molecular Weight | 88.11 g/mol |
| Boiling Point | 77–78°C |
| Melting Point | -83.6°C |
| Density | 0.897 g/cm³ (at 20°C) |
| Refractive Index | 1.372–1.375 (at 20°C) |
| Viscosity | ~0.426 cP (at 20°C) |
| Surface Tension | ~23.9 mN/m (at 20°C) |
| Vapor Pressure | ~97 mmHg (at 20°C) |
| Evaporation Rate | Fast |
| Water Solubility | ~8.3% (at 20°C) |
| Specific Gravity | 0.89–0.90 |
| Flash Point | ~4°C (closed cup) |

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Applications of Ethyl Acetate EtOAc solvent
Paints and Coatings
Ethyl Ethanoate is a highly efficient solvent used in the production of paints and varnishes. It helps achieve smooth surfaces and accelerates drying during the manufacturing process.
Adhesives and Inks
It effectively dissolves resins and polymers and is widely used in the formulation of printing inks and packaging adhesives.
Pharmaceutical Industry
Ethyl Acetate is used for the extraction and purification of active pharmaceutical compounds and can also be used as a reaction solvent in pharmaceutical manufacturing processes.
Food Industry
It is used to extract flavorings such as coffee and fruit flavorings and is approved as a food additive under the number E1504.
Laboratory Applications
It is commonly used as a chromatographic solvent and plays an important role in organic synthesis experiments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Is ethyl acetate safe to use?
It is considered safe when handled correctly, but it can be harmful if inhaled or ingested in large quantities. Always use it in a well-ventilated area and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and a mask, to minimize exposure.
Q2. How is ethyl acetate produced?
It is typically produced through an esterification reaction, where acetic acid reacts with ethanol in the presence of an acid catalyst.
Q3. What is the environmental impact of ethyl acetate?
CAS 141-78-6 Ethyl acetate is generally considered an environmentally friendly solvent because it is biodegradable and has relatively low toxicity compared to other solvents.
Q4. Can ethyl acetate be used as a cleaning solvent?
Yes, Ethyl Ethanoate is an effective cleaning solvent because it can dissolve a wide variety of substances, including oils and resins. It is commonly used in industrial and laboratory environments to clean glassware and equipment.
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