Etüülalkoholit

Etüülalkoholit, also known as ethanol or ethyl alcohol, is a volatile, flammable, colorless liquid with a distinctive, pungent odor. It is a simple alcohol with the chemical formula C2H5OH. Ethanol is produced naturally through the fermentation of sugars by yeasts. This process is widely used in the production of alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine, and spirits. Industrially, ethanol can also be synthesized from etüleen, a petrochemical feedstock.

Beyond its use in beverages, etüülalkoholit has numerous other applications. It is a common solvent in industries ranging from pharmaceuticals and cosmetics to paints and varnishes. It is also used as a fuel additive, often blended with gasoline to improve octane rating and reduce emissions. In laboratory settings, it serves as a reagent and a disinfectant. Etüülalkoholit is metabolized in the human body, and its consumption in alcoholic beverages can lead to intoxication, impaired judgment, and long-term health consequences. It is also a key component in many cleaning products and hand sanitizers due to its antimicrobial properties.