Alkooli

Alkooli is a broad class of organic compounds that contain one or more hydroxyl (-OH) groups attached to carbon atoms. In chemistry they are commonly called alcohols; alkooli is a form used in some languages to denote this class. The general formula is R-OH, where R is an alkyl or aryl group. The number of hydroxyl groups can vary, but the most common are monohydric alcohols, with a single -OH.

Classification and nomenclature

- Primary, secondary, and tertiary alcohols describe how the carbon bearing the -OH group is attached to other carbon atoms.

- In systematic naming, the alkane name is modified by the suffix -ol (for example, methane → methanol, ethanol from ethane, propanol from propane).

Properties

- Alcohols are polar and can form hydrogen bonds, which affects solubility and boiling points.

- Short-chain alcohols are generally miscible with water; solubility decreases as the carbon chain grows.

- Boiling points are higher than those of corresponding alkanes due to hydrogen bonding.

- They are typically flammable and used as solvents, reagents, or fuels.

Production and occurrence

- Ethanol is produced industrially by fermentation of sugars and also by chemical hydration of ethene.

- Other alcohols are obtained from petrochemical feedstocks or via hydrocarbon-based routes; many are produced for use as solvents, intermediates, or specialty chemicals.

- Alcohols occur naturally in small amounts in foods and beverages; ethanol is the primary consumable example.

Uses and safety

- Common uses include solvents, cleaning agents, coatings, personal care products, and chemical intermediates. Ethanol serves as a fuel or fuel additive in many contexts.

- Safety varies by compound: methanol and some other alcohols are highly toxic; ethanol is safe in moderate amounts but is flammable and can be harmful in excess. Proper storage and handling are essential.