alkohol

Alkohol, in chemistry known as ethanol, is a clear, volatile liquid with the formula C2H5OH. It is the primary psychoactive component of alcoholic beverages and is also widely used as a solvent, antiseptic, and fuel. Ethanol is miscible with water and many organic solvents; it boils at 78.37 C and is highly flammable.

Most ethanol is produced by fermentation of sugars by yeast, which converts glucose into ethanol and carbon dioxide. This fermentation is the basis of beer, wine, and other alcoholic drinks. Industrial ethanol can also be produced by hydration of ethene or by fermentation of biomass, and it is commonly sold as beverage alcohol or as an anhydrous chemical for industrial uses. Ethanol blends are used as fuels or fuel additives in various regions.

Beverages containing ethanol include beer, wine, and spirits, with typical alcohol by volume ranges of about 4-6% for beer, 10-15% for wine, and 20-60% for spirits. Beyond beverage use, ethanol remains a widely used industrial solvent and is a common component in antiseptics and hand sanitizers, as well as a renewable fuel.

Drinking ethanol affects the central nervous system and can impair judgment and coordination. Moderate consumption is associated with varying health effects; excessive or chronic use can lead to dependence, liver disease, cardiovascular problems, and increased cancer risk. Ethanol is metabolized primarily in the liver by alcohol dehydrogenase to acetaldehyde and then to acetate; genetic differences influence metabolism and sensitivity. Fetal exposure during pregnancy can cause fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. Other alcohols, such as methanol, are highly toxic and can be fatal if ingested; methanol is sometimes found as a contaminant or adulterant in illicit beverages.

Regulation around the world covers production methods, labeling of alcohol content (ABV), age restrictions, taxation, and marketing rules. Beyond beverage use, ethanol remains the most widely used industrial solvent and is a common component in antiseptics and hand sanitizers, as well as a renewable fuel.