Propenoic acid, also known as acrylic acid, refers to a colorless and pungent-smelling organic compound commonly used in the production of various plastics, coatings, and adhesives. Synonyms for propenoic acid include acroleic acid, ethylenecarboxylic acid, vinyl formic acid, and propenic acid. Acroleic acid is a closely related compound to propenoic acid, but it has a slightly different chemical structure and is used in the manufacturing of fibers and rubbers. Ethylenecarboxylic acid is a much less common alternative name for propenoic acid. Vinyl formic acid and propenic acid are also synonyms for acrylic acid and are used in a variety of industrial and commercial applications.