Final answer:
CH₃COOH, also known as acetic acid, is classified as a weak acid because it does not fully dissociate in water.
Step-by-step explanation:
CH₃COOH, commonly known as acetic acid, is a weak acid. It does not completely dissociate in water, which is characteristic of weak acids. In contrast, strong acids like HCl dissociate completely when dissolved in water, releasing all of their hydrogen ions into the solution. The strength of an acid is determined by its ability to donate protons (H⁺ ions) to water, forming hydronium ions (H₃O⁺). Acetic acid only partially dissociates, resulting in a mixture of undissociated molecules and ions, which is typical behavior for a weak acid.