álcool

Álcool is a common term referring to ethanol, a volatile, flammable, colorless liquid with a characteristic pungent odor. It is an organic compound with the chemical formula C2H5OH. Ethanol is produced through the fermentation of sugars by yeast. This process is central to the production of alcoholic beverages, such as beer, wine, and spirits.

Beyond its use in beverages, ethanol has numerous industrial and commercial applications. It serves as a solvent in many products, including paints, varnishes, and cleaning agents. It is also a key ingredient in the production of other chemicals and can be used as a biofuel, often blended with gasoline. In medicine, ethanol is used as a disinfectant and antiseptic due to its ability to kill microorganisms.

Consumption of alcoholic beverages has social and cultural significance in many societies, but excessive alcohol intake can lead to serious health problems, including liver disease, cardiovascular issues, and addiction. The legal drinking age and regulations surrounding alcohol sales vary widely by country and region. Ethanol is a central nervous system depressant, and its effects on the body can range from mild euphoria to severe intoxication and even death, depending on the amount consumed and individual factors.