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Ethanol, also known as ethyl alcohol, is a volatile, flammable, colorless liquid with a characteristic odor. Its chemical formula is C2H5OH. It is a simple alcohol and is the type of alcohol found in alcoholic beverages. Ethanol is produced by the fermentation of sugars by yeasts. It is also synthesized industrially from ethylene.

Ethanol has numerous applications. It is used as a solvent in many industries, including pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. It serves as a feedstock for the production of other chemicals, such as ethyl acetate and ethylene oxide. In the fuel industry, ethanol is blended with gasoline to create biofuels. It is also used as a disinfectant and antiseptic due to its ability to kill microorganisms.

The consumption of ethanol in alcoholic beverages can lead to intoxication and has various physiological effects. Excessive and chronic consumption can cause serious health problems, including liver damage, addiction, and neurological disorders. Ethanol is a central nervous system depressant.

Ethanol is soluble in water and many organic solvents. It has a relatively low boiling point of approximately 78.37 °C (173.07 °F) and a freezing point of -114.1 °C (-173.4 °F). Its density is less than that of water. Ethanol is flammable and its vapors can form explosive mixtures with air.