The Science of Alcohols: From Drinks to Fuels

Alcohols are organic compounds where a carbon atom is bonded to an –OH group.
Ethanol is the alcohol found in beverages, produced by yeast during fermentation.
Not all alcohols are drinkable—methanol and isopropanol are toxic and used industrially.
Alcohols mix easily with water because their –OH group can form hydrogen bonds.
They serve as solvents in perfumes, medicines, and cleaning products.
Ethanol is blended with gasoline to create cleaner-burning biofuels.
Alcohols act as intermediates in making plastics, paints, and pharmaceuticals.
Their boiling points rise with chain length, making some liquid and others solid.
Alcohol’s role in metabolism explains both its energy value and intoxicating effects.
From social rituals to renewable fuels, alcohols connect culture, science, and technology.