Sodium acetate, CH3COONa, also abbreviated NaOAc, is the sodium salt of acetic acid. This salt is colorless, deliquescent, and hygroscopic. It has a crystal structure that alternates between sodium-carboxylate and methyl group layers. Sodium acetate can be prepared by reacting acetic acid with sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, or sodium hydroxide. It can also be prepared by combining vinegar and sodium bicarbonate. The acetate anion, [CH3COO]−, is the conjugate base of acetic acid. Many acetate salts are ionic, which means they tend to dissolve well in water. Commercially important acetate salts include aluminum acetate, ammonium acetate, and potassium acetate.