Etanoln

Etanoln is not a widely recognized chemical term in standard nomenclature. The spelling may reflect a misspelling of ethanol or a fictional designation in certain contexts. This article therefore provides a concise overview of ethanol, the closest well-documented analogue.

Ethanol, also known as ethyl alcohol, has the formula C2H6O (often written CH3CH2OH). It is a volatile, colorless liquid at room temperature with a characteristic odor. It is miscible with water and many organic solvents. Key physical properties include a boiling point of 78.37 °C and a melting point of -114.1 °C; density about 0.789 g/cm3 at 20 °C; and a flash point around 13 °C. It is flammable and forms explosive vapors in air at high concentrations.

Production and availability: Ethanol is produced by fermentation of sugars with yeast (bioethanol) and by catalytic hydration of ethylene (industrial route). It is also produced in small quantities by other biochemical pathways. It is widely used as a fuel additive (biofuel), a solvent in laboratories and industry, and as an antiseptic and disinfectant (e.g., hand sanitizers). It is the primary ingredient in alcoholic beverages when beverage-grade purity is used.

Safety and environmental: Ethanol is generally metabolized in humans but can be intoxicating and, in large amounts, toxic. It is highly flammable and should be stored away from heat, sparks, and flames. Chronic exposure can affect liver and nervous system. Environmentally, ethanol is readily biodegradable and has relatively low acute toxicity to aquatic life, but spills can contribute to oxygen depletion in water and contribute to air pollution through evaporation.