In a test mix sodium bicarbonate with both the solutions in a test tube. As a product ethanoic acid will produce CO② preferverence but ethanol will not. *ethanol does not react with sodium bicarbonate whereas ethanoic acid reacts.

Chemical Test to Distinguish between Ethanol and Ethanoic Acid

To differentiate between ethanol (C2H5OH) and ethanoic acid (CH3COOH), we can perform a simple chemical test known as the Sodium Bicarbonate Test. This test relies on the reaction between the compounds and sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3).

Reason for the Test
Ethanol and ethanoic acid are both organic compounds with similar molecular formulas. Ethanol is an alcohol, while ethanoic acid is a carboxylic acid. They differ in their functional groups and chemical properties. The Sodium Bicarbonate Test is based on the different acidic properties of these compounds, allowing us to distinguish between them.

Procedure
1. Start by taking two separate test tubes.
2. In the first test tube, add a small amount of ethanol.
3. In the second test tube, add a small amount of ethanoic acid.
4. To each test tube, add a few drops of sodium bicarbonate solution (NaHCO3).

Observations
1. Ethanol: No observable reaction occurs with sodium bicarbonate. The ethanol remains unchanged.
2. Ethanoic Acid: An immediate reaction takes place, resulting in the formation of effervescence (bubbling) and the release of carbon dioxide gas (CO2). This reaction is due to the acidic nature of ethanoic acid.

Explanation
Ethanol is an alcohol and does not possess the acidic functional group found in carboxylic acids. Therefore, it does not react with sodium bicarbonate, which is a weak base. The lack of effervescence or gas release confirms that the compound is ethanol.

On the other hand, ethanoic acid is a carboxylic acid and contains the carboxyl group (-COOH). When ethanoic acid reacts with sodium bicarbonate, carbon dioxide gas is released due to the neutralization reaction between the acid and the base. The effervescence observed during the test indicates the presence of ethanoic acid.

This simple test allows us to distinguish between ethanol and ethanoic acid by observing their different reactions with sodium bicarbonate. It is important to note that this test is specific for these two compounds and may not be applicable to different functional groups or organic compounds.