Alcohol, such as ethanol, has distinct chemical properties that contribute to its uses and behaviors under various conditions. Some key properties of ethanol include:
- Volatility: Ethanol easily evaporates at room temperature, contributing to its characteristic smell.
- Solubility: Ethanol is miscible with water, which means the two liquids can be mixed in any proportion without separating.
- Combustibility: Ethanol is flammable and burns with a clean flame, making it a potential fuel source.
- Toxicity: Ethanol can be intoxicating and is toxic in high concentrations to biological organisms.
- Chemical reactivity: Ethanol can undergo various chemical reactions, such as oxidation to form acetic acid.
These properties are important in many applications, from the manufacturing of alcoholic beverages to its use as a disinfectant or biofuel.