Acetate

Acetate, also known as ethanoate, is the salt of acetic acid (vinegar). It is formed when acetic acid is deprotonated. Its chemical formula is CH2COOH- when it exists as an ion. Acetate salts turn brown when heated, and smell like acetic acid.
Acetate is usually found as part of a compound formed as a salt, for example sodium acetate, often as the product of a neutralisation reaction of acetic acid and a base.