Ethanol
(noun)
- A colorless, flammable liquid that is the active ingredient in alcoholic beverages and is also used as a solvent and fuel.
- A chemical compound with the molecular formula C2H5OH.
Origin:
From the international union of pure and applied chemistry (iupac) name ethyl alcohol, from the prefix ethyl, indicating the presence of two carbon atoms in the molecule and alcohol indicating the presence of a hydroxyl (-oh) group.
Examples:
- Ethanol is the active ingredient in alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine and spirits.
- Ethanol is also used as a solvent in the production of perfumes and medicines.
- Ethanol is used as a biofuel, often blended with gasoline.
- Ethanol is a type of alcohol that is commonly consumed.
- Ethanol is produced by the fermentation of sugars, such as those found in grains, fruits and vegetables.