watermethanol

Watermethanol refers to a homogeneous liquid mixture of water and methanol (CH3OH). Because water and methanol are completely miscible, the composition can vary from nearly pure water to nearly pure methanol without phase separation. The term is commonly used to describe solvent systems in laboratories and industry, as well as mixtures employed in fuel, antifreeze, cleaning, and chemical processing applications.

Physical properties of water–methanol mixtures depend on the ratio of components. Methanol lowers the overall boiling point relative to pure water, and the mixture’s volatility increases with methanol content. Density, viscosity, and refractive index vary with composition. The mixture is flammable and should be handled with adequate ventilation, grounding, and precautions against ignition sources.

Applications include use as a polar organic solvent for synthesis, extraction, and chromatography, as a cleaning agent, and as an antifreeze or de-icer. It is also used as a fuel component or surrogate in some engines and energy technologies, and aqueous methanol solutions are common laboratory eluents and reaction media.

Safety and handling: Methanol is toxic if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin, with serious consequences including blindness. Water dilutes but does not remove toxicity. Handle in well-ventilated areas with personal protective equipment, proper storage away from heat, and compliant waste disposal following regulatory guidelines.