What are the uses of alcohol in daily life?
Alcohols have numerous uses:
- Solvents: Ethanol and isopropanol are used as solvents in various products like paints, varnishes, and perfumes.
- Antiseptics and Disinfectants: Isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) is used as an antiseptic. Ethanol is a component of hand sanitizers.
- Fuels: Ethanol is used as a biofuel (either blended with gasoline or used directly).
- Beverages: Ethanol is the alcohol present in alcoholic beverages.
- Pharmaceuticals: Alcohols are used in the preparation of many medicines and drugs.
- Industrial feedstock: Methanol is used in the production of formaldehyde and other chemicals.