Color: Acetic acid is colorless in its pure form. However, when it is exposed to air, it can absorb oxygen and turn into a pale yellow or amber color. The color change is due to the formation of acetic anhydride, a compound that is responsible for the pungent smell of vinegar.
Smell: Acetic acid has a strong, pungent, and sour smell that is characteristic of vinegar. The smell is due to the presence of acetic acid molecules in the air. These molecules irritate the mucous membranes in the nose and throat, causing the characteristic "vinegar smell."
