An organic compound X of molecular formula C2H4O2 turns blue litmus to red and gives brisk effervescence with Na2CO3 and NaHCO3. Identify X and name of the gas responsible for effervescence.

X is ethanoic acid (CH3COOH). It is acidic and hence turns blue litmus red. It releases carbon dioxide (CO2) when treated with Na2CO3 and NaHCO3 which is responsible for effervescence.


2CH3COOH + Na2CO3 2CH3COONa + CO2 + H2O


CH3COOH + NaHCO3 CH3COONa + CO2 + H2O


27