Ethanol
Molar mass: 46.07 g/mol · Class: Alcohol
Elements: carbon, hydrogen, oxygen
Structure
The molecule has two carbons bonded together, with a hydroxyl (-OH) group on one end. This -OH group makes ethanol mix completely with water, while the carbon chain lets it dissolve oils too.
Properties
Clear liquid, completely miscible with water
Flammable, burning with a pale blue flame
Boiling point 78.4 °C: lower than water
Depressant that affects the central nervous system
Applications
Alcoholic beverages (regulated by age laws)
Solvent for medicines, perfumes, and extraction
Biofuel blended into gasoline
Disinfectant in hand sanitizers
Flammable: keep away from open flames. Alcohol impairs judgment and coordination; never drink and drive, and keep out of children's reach. Methanol contamination in illicit alcohol can cause blindness and death.
Data source: IUPAC standard atomic weights 2021; molar mass computed from C2H5OH