What is the name of the compound with the chemical formula C2H5OH?


Quick Answer

The compound with the chemical formula C2H5OH is called ethanol or ethyl alcohol. It may also be referred to as ethyl hydroxide, hydroxyethane or ethyl hydrate. The formula for ethanol may also be written as CH3-CH2-OH.

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Full Answer

Ethanol is a clear and colorless liquid commonly known as pure alcohol or beverage alcohol. It is volatile and flammable and can be produced through fermentation from various products that contain starch, such as corn, wheat and potatoes.

Ethanol is used as a solvent, fuel and preservative. It has bactericidal properties, so it can also be applied on the skin as a disinfectant. Industrially, ethanol is used as an intermediate in the production processes of other chemicals, including ethyl esters, acetic acid and ethyl halides.

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