etanolimolekyyliä

The ethanol molecule, with the chemical formula C2H5OH, is a simple alcohol. It consists of an ethyl group (C2H5) attached to a hydroxyl group (OH). This structure makes ethanol polar, meaning it has a slight electrical charge separation, which allows it to dissolve in water and other polar substances. The carbon atoms in the ethyl group are bonded to each other and to hydrogen atoms. The oxygen atom in the hydroxyl group is bonded to a carbon atom and a hydrogen atom.

Ethanol is a colorless, volatile liquid with a distinctive odor. It is flammable and has a relatively low boiling point. Its properties are crucial to its widespread use in various industries. It can be produced through fermentation of sugars by yeast or synthesized from ethylene.

In its pure form, ethanol is often referred to as absolute ethanol. It is a key ingredient in alcoholic beverages, where it is produced through the fermentation process. Beyond its role in beverages, ethanol finds extensive application as a solvent in paints, varnishes, and cleaning products. It is also used as a fuel additive, often blended with gasoline, to improve octane rating and reduce emissions. Furthermore, ethanol serves as a feedstock for the production of other chemicals and is utilized in laboratory settings for various analytical and synthetic purposes. Its versatility and relatively low toxicity in moderate amounts contribute to its significance in everyday life and industry.