Ethanols

/ˈɛθənɔlz/ noun

Definition

Plural of ethanol, the clear liquid alcohol found in alcoholic drinks, disinfectants, and fuel that is produced by fermenting sugar.

Etymology

From ethane + -ol (hydroxyl group). Ethanol is also called ethyl alcohol, and the name describes the two-carbon hydrocarbon backbone (ethane) with an alcohol functional group attached.

Kelly Says

Ethanol has been made by humans for over 10,000 years through fermentation, making it one of our oldest chemical discoveries—ancient Mesopotamians and Egyptians were brewing it before they had any chemistry knowledge!

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