Ethanol is a colorless, volatile liquid that is widely used as a solvent, disinfectant, and in the production of alcoholic beverages. It is also used in fuel and in the synthesis of various chemicals.
- Alcoholic Beverages: Used as the primary ingredient in alcoholic beverages.
- Solvent: Used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and as a solvent in various industrial applications.
- Fuel: Used as a biofuel and in gasoline blends.
- Disinfectant: Applied in hand sanitizers and disinfectants.
- Chemical Manufacturing: Used in the production of other chemicals such as acetic acid and acetaldehyde.
Physical and Chemical Properties:
| Properties |
Data |
| Appearance |
Colorless liquid |
| Odor |
Slightly sweet odor |
| Molecular Formula |
C2H5OH |
| Molecular Weight |
46.07 g/mol |
| Boiling Point |
78.37 °C |
| Density |
0.789 g/cm³ |
| Solubility |
Miscible with water and most organic solvents |
| Flash Point |
13 °C (closed cup) |
| Chemical Stability |
Stable under normal conditions, highly flammable |