‘Properties, Uses and Health Hazards of Alcohols: A Comprehensive Guide’

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

Q: What are alcohols?

A: Alcohols are a class of organic compounds that contain a hydroxyl (-OH) group attached to a carbon atom. They can be classified as primary, secondary, or tertiary, depending on the carbon atom that the hydroxyl group is attached to.

Q: What are the properties of alcohols?

A: Alcohols have several physical and chemical properties, such as:

1. Boiling and melting points: Alcohols have higher boiling and melting points than hydrocarbons due to the presence of hydrogen bonding between the molecules.

2. Solubility: Alcohols are soluble in water and other polar solvents because the hydroxyl group can form hydrogen bonds with the solvent molecules.

3. Reactivity: Alcohols can undergo several chemical reactions such as oxidation, esterification, dehydration, and substitution.

4. Flammability: Alcohols are flammable and can be used as fuels.

Q: What are the uses of alcohols?

A: Alcohols have several uses in various fields, such as:

1. Solvents: Alcohols are used as solvents in the production of varnishes, paints, and perfumes.

2. Fuel: Methanol and ethanol are used as alternative fuels or fuel additives in the production of biodiesel and gasoline.

3. Beverages: Ethanol is used in the production of alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine, and spirits.

4. Pharmaceuticals: Methanol and ethanol are used as disinfectants and antiseptics.

Q: What are the health hazards of alcohols?

A: Alcohols can be hazardous to health if ingested or inhaled in large quantities. Methanol and ethanol are toxic and can cause death or damage to the nervous system, liver, and other organs. Ethanol is addictive and can lead to alcoholism, liver damage, and other health problems if consumed in excess.

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