Alkoholt

Alkoholt is a term used in several languages to refer to alcohols in general, and in everyday usage it most often denotes ethanol, the type of alcohol found in beverages and many industrial products. Ethanol is a volatile, colorless liquid with the chemical formula C2H5OH and is the form of alcohol that humans commonly consume in drinks.

Ethanol is produced primarily by fermentation, in which yeast converts sugars from crops such as fruits, grains, or sugar beet into ethanol and carbon dioxide. Industrially, ethanol can also be produced by the hydration of ethylene. It is highly flammable, miscible with water, and has a boiling point of 78.37°C. In beverages, ethanol concentrations typically range from about 3% to 40% ABV (alcohol by volume), with higher-proof spirits reaching around 40% ABV or more.

Uses of ethanol are diverse. It serves as the main ingredient in alcoholic beverages and as a solvent in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and sanitizers. It is also used as a biofuel (bioethanol) and as an industrial chemical feedstock. Distinguishing ethanol from other alcohols is important: methanol and isopropanol are toxic to humans and should not be consumed.

Health and safety considerations are central to discussions of alkoholt. Moderate consumption laws and guidelines vary by country, but excessive intake can impair judgment and coordination, damage organs over time, and lead to addiction or other health problems. Ethanol can interact with medications and is highly flammable, requiring careful storage and handling.

Regulation of alcoholic beverages includes age restrictions, labeling requirements, taxation, and advertising controls, reflecting both public health concerns and cultural practices. Across cultures, alkoholt plays a significant role in social, religious, and economic contexts.