Alcóhóli

Alcóhóli is a term that broadly refers to a class of organic compounds characterized by the presence of a hydroxyl group (-OH) attached to a saturated carbon atom. This hydroxyl group is what gives alcohols their distinctive chemical properties. The simplest alcohol is methanol, with the chemical formula CH3OH. Ethanol, C2H5OH, is another well-known alcohol, famous for its presence in alcoholic beverages.

Alcohols are versatile and find applications in numerous industries. They are used as solvents in paints, varnishes, and cleaning products. Ethanol, in particular, is widely used as a biofuel and as a disinfectant. Methanol is a key component in the production of formaldehyde and other chemicals. The properties of alcohols vary depending on the number of carbon atoms and the arrangement of the hydroxyl group. For instance, longer-chain alcohols tend to be less soluble in water and have higher boiling points.

Chemically, alcohols can undergo various reactions. They can be oxidized to form aldehydes and carboxylic acids, or they can react with acids to form esters. The hydroxyl group can also be replaced by other functional groups. The flammability of many common alcohols necessitates careful handling and storage. The classification of alcohols includes primary, secondary, and tertiary alcohols, which are determined by the number of carbon atoms directly attached to the carbon atom bearing the hydroxyl group. This structural difference influences their reactivity.