alkóhóli

Alcóhóli refers to a class of organic chemical compounds characterized by the presence of a hydroxyl group (−OH) bonded to a saturated carbon atom. This functional group is what defines an alcohol. The simplest alcohol is methanol (CH3OH), followed by ethanol (C2H5OH), commonly known as alcohol in beverages. Other examples include propanol, butanol, and a vast array of more complex molecules.

Alcohols exhibit a wide range of physical and chemical properties, largely depending on the size and structure of the carbon chain attached to the hydroxyl group. Lower molecular weight alcohols are typically colorless liquids, volatile, and possess a characteristic odor. They are often soluble in water due to the polar nature of the hydroxyl group, which can form hydrogen bonds. As the carbon chain length increases, solubility in water decreases, and their properties shift towards those of alkanes.

Chemically, alcohols can undergo various reactions. The hydroxyl group is reactive, allowing alcohols to participate in esterification, oxidation, and dehydration reactions, among others. These reactions are fundamental in organic chemistry and are used in the synthesis of many important compounds.

Alcohols have diverse applications. Ethanol is widely used as a solvent, disinfectant, and fuel additive. Methanol is a precursor for many industrial chemicals, including formaldehyde and acetic acid. Higher alcohols are used as solvents, plasticizers, and in the production of detergents and cosmetics. The term "alkóhóli" in a general chemical context encompasses all these substances, distinguishing them from phenols, where the hydroxyl group is directly attached to an aromatic ring.