A simple Ethanol (Ethyl Alcohol) molecule is comprised of a 2-carbon alcohol containing a single bond between them and has an OH group attached to it. Its molecular formula is CH3CH2OH. German Scientist Justus Liebig introduced the prefix ethyl in 1834. The prefix is derived from the French root "ether" which means any substance that evaporates to room temperature. Liebig formed his own theory declaring that the production of alcohol was not done by a biological process but by a chemical process. Ethanol occurs naturally through the processes of fermentation by plants and it can be synthesized as well.
Who Uses Ethanol? And What is it Used in? Many scientists, chemists, and ordinary people use Ethanol! It is used in many products such as cosmetics, medical uses/medicine and engine fuel. Ethanol is used in hand sanitizer because it is a great antiseptic and it is commonly used to dissolve water-insoluble compounds due to its high concentrations. It is used in perfumes and many personal care products to help eliminate excessive oil produced in the skin. It also acts as a preservative in many cosmetic products. How does Ethanol Affect the Body? Ethanol in the body is quantitatively measured by blood alcohol content therefore meaning that Ethanol is consumable! It is used in some alcoholic beverages since it is a form of alcohol! Many adults who consume Ethanol experience some sort of euphoria and relaxation. Ethanol and the Environment Ethanol contains 35% oxygen. By adding oxygen to fuel the leading result will allow for a better and more complete fuel combustion, which in turn will help eliminate harmful tailpipe emissions. Gasoline contains many harmful elements such as benzene, but due to ethanol’s chemical properties, it helps displace many of the toxic products in gasoline. Ethanol is non-toxic, biodegradable, and water-soluble. One of the major sources of carbon dioxide emissions and greenhouse gas is cause by the burning of fossil fuels, but since ethanol is produced from plants, it is a renewable fuel. |
FACT: Ethanol is rapidly biodegraded in surface water, groundwater and soil, and is the safest component in gasoline today.
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FACT: Using ethanol in place of gasoline helps to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by an average of 34% compared to gasoline.
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FACT: Water usage in ethanol production is declining.
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References:
http://www.ethanolrfa.org/pages/ethanol-facts-environment#sthash.FeIvLMxn.dpuf
http://www.ethanolrfa.org/pages/ethanol-facts-environment#sthash.FeIvLMxn.dpuf