Alcohols
– contain Hydroxyl group (OH) – suffix ol or hydroxy if a higher priority group is present- Diols contain two hydroxyl groups. * Geminal: 2 Hydroxyl groups on the same carbon* Vicinal: on adjacent carbons
1. What is an alcohol?
An alcohol is an organic compound that contains a hydroxyl (-OH) functional group attached to a carbon atom.
2. What is the general formula for alcohols?
The general formula for alcohols is C_nH_{2n+1}OH, where ‘n’ represents the number of carbon atoms in the molecule.
3. How are alcohols classified?
Alcohols can be classified into three groups: (i) primary alcohols, (ii) secondary alcohols, and (iii) tertiary alcohols. The classification is based on the number of carbon atoms attached to the carbon atom bearing the -OH group.
4. What are some common uses of alcohols?
Alcohols are used for a variety of purposes, including as solvents in industry and lab experiments, as antiseptics for cleaning wounds, as fuel for combustion engines, as a preservative in food and beverages, and as an active ingredient in many consumer products, such as perfumes, lotions, and hand sanitizers.
5. What is meant by the term “proof” in regards to alcohol?
Proof is a term used to describe the alcohol content of a beverage. It is defined as twice the percentage of alcohol by volume (ABV). For example, a beverage that is 50% ABV would be 100 proof.
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