CH3CH2OH is the structural formula for ethanol, also known as ethyl alcohol.
Ethanol is a widely used chemical compound with a variety of applications. Here's a more detailed look:
Properties of Ethanol:
- Chemical Formula: C2H6O (or C2H5OH)
- Appearance: Colorless liquid
- Odor: Characteristic, slightly sweet
- Flammability: Highly flammable
- Solubility: Miscible with water
Uses of Ethanol:
- Alcoholic Beverages: The intoxicating ingredient in beer, wine, and spirits.
- Fuel: Used as a fuel or fuel additive.
- Solvent: Used in the production of various chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products.
- Antiseptic: Used in hand sanitizers and medical wipes.
- Disinfectant: Effective against many microorganisms.
- Industrial Applications: Used as a building block in the synthesis of other organic compounds.
Important Considerations:
- Flammability: Ethanol is highly flammable and should be handled with care.
- Toxicity: Ingestion of large amounts of ethanol can be harmful or fatal.
- Denatured Alcohol: Ethanol used for industrial purposes is often "denatured" by adding substances that make it unfit for human consumption.
In summary, CH3CH2OH represents the molecule ethanol, a versatile chemical compound with a wide range of applications, from beverages to fuels and disinfectants.
