Detailed Summary of Ethanol
Ethanol (C2H5OH), often referred to as ethyl alcohol, is one of the most widely used alcoholic beverages and industrial solvents. It is classified as a monohydric alcohol, because it contains one hydroxyl (-OH) group. The section delves into different methods of synthesizing ethanol, including the hydration of ethylene, fermentation of sugars, and the reduction of carbonyl compounds. The physical properties are also discussed, such as boiling point and solubility, which stem from ethanol's ability to form hydrogen bonds due to its hydroxyl group. Ethanol's chemical reactivity shows it can act as a nucleophile and electrophile, leading to various reactions including dehydration and oxidation. The significance of understanding ethanol’s structure, reactivity, and properties lies in its applications in pharmaceuticals, fuel, and beverages.