Alkohols

Alcohols are a broad class of organic compounds that contain one or more hydroxyl (-OH) groups attached to carbon. The polar O–H bond gives alcohols distinctive properties, including hydrogen bonding, relatively high boiling points compared with nonpolar hydrocarbons of similar molecular weight, and varying solubility in water.

They are typically classified by the carbon atom bearing the hydroxyl group as primary, secondary, or tertiary. Methanol and ethanol are primary alcohols; secondary examples include isopropanol; tertiary examples include tert-butanol.

Nomenclature uses the -ol suffix in IUPAC names (for example methanol, ethanol, propan-1-ol, propan-2-ol). Higher alcohols follow the same rule, with additional carbon chains prefixed to the -ol base.

Reactivity: Primary alcohols can be oxidized first to aldehydes and then to carboxylic acids; secondary alcohols oxidize to ketones; tertiary alcohols are relatively resistant to oxidation under mild conditions. Alcohols also undergo esterification with carboxylic acids to form esters, and can dehydrate to give alkenes under acidic conditions. They function as solvents and reagents in a wide range of chemical syntheses.

Uses and examples: Ethanol is widely consumed in beverages, used as a solvent, and employed as a biofuel. Methanol is a toxic solvent and antifreeze component. Isopropanol is a common disinfectant and solvent. Higher alcohols are used as solvents, plasticizers, and fuels.

Production and safety: Ethanol is produced by fermentation or via petrochemical routes; methanol is produced from synthesis gas. Toxicity varies: methanol can cause blindness and metabolic acidosis; ethanol can impair coordination at typical beverage levels. Safety data sheets provide guidance for handling and exposure.