Types of Alcohol. ‘ The word alcohol refers to those chemical compounds that are the result of the replacement of hydrogen atoms by hydroxyl groups in hydrocarbons, whether they are saturated or not. Within chemistry we talk about the following types of alcohol.
Summary
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- 1 Types of Alcohol
- 1 Methanol
- 2 Ethanol
- 3 Butanol
- 4 Octanol
- 2 Source
Types of Alcohol
Methanol
Also known under the name of methyl alcohol or burning, it has the following chemical formula: CH3OH and is characterized by having a chemical structure close to that of water. In its natural state, this alcohol is colorless, liquid and with a fruity flavor and odor. Furthermore, it is flammable and highly toxic. If mixed with air, it can produce fuels with a high calorific value. It is from this compound that methane and formalin are obtained. Its obtaining comes from the synthesis of hydrogen and carbon monoxide by means of catalytic processes. High pressures and temperatures are used to perform these procedures.
Ethanol
Also known under the name of ethyl alcohol or simply alcohol, it is characterized by being liquid, colorless and with a burning taste. Its chemical formula is H3C-CH2-OH and it is the alcohol used for the production of alcoholic beverages such as wine, cider and brandy, among others. To obtain ethanol, without the presence of water, azeotropic distillation processes are used in cyclohexane or benzene. In addition to being used in the production of alcoholic beverages, ethanol is required in the chemical, pharmaceutical and industrial industries. Also, it is used for domestic and even industrial fuels. It must be taken into account that its consumption affects the coordination of the members of the body, vision and can also cause drowsiness, dizziness and euphoria.
Butanol
Also known under the name of butyl alcohol, this organic compound is characterized by being in a liquid state, being colorless, and possessing a particular aroma. Furthermore, it is highly flammable and soluble in water. Its chemical formula is H3C- (CH2) 3-OH and it is used for organic synthesis of solvent esters, in colorations, it is also used as a solvent, as a dehydrating agent and for the production of detergent , among other things. Butanol is obtained from triethyl aluminum and ethylene oxide. If inhaled, it can cause anesthesia, cough, sleep, difficulty breathing and lightheadedness. If it comes in contact with the skin or the eyes, it causes irritation.
Octanol
It is naturally found in essential oils in the form of esters. It is mainly used for the production of esters that are required to generate flavors and in the perfumery area, it is also used in the field of medicine for conducting experiments. Its chemical formula is CH3 (CH2) 7OH.
