etüülalkoholid

Etüülalkohol, also known as ethanol or ethyl alcohol, is a volatile, flammable, colorless liquid with a characteristic odor. It is the principal type of alcohol found in alcoholic beverages and is produced by the fermentation of sugars by yeast. Chemically, it is an organic compound with the formula C2H5OH. Ethanol is a primary alcohol, meaning the hydroxyl group (-OH) is attached to a primary carbon atom.

In addition to its presence in beverages, ethanol is widely used as a solvent in industry and research, as a fuel additive, and as a disinfectant. Its production can occur through either biological processes, such as fermentation, or chemical synthesis from ethylene. The purity of ethanol can vary significantly depending on its intended use. For instance, denatured alcohol is ethanol that has additives to make it unfit for human consumption, often used for industrial purposes.

Ethanol has a significant impact on the human body, acting as a central nervous system depressant. Its consumption can lead to intoxication, impaired motor skills, and long-term health issues. In terms of environmental impact, ethanol is considered a relatively clean-burning fuel, producing fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to gasoline when used as a biofuel. Its versatility and widespread availability make it a crucial compound in various sectors.