Methanol is a chemical compound with chemical formula CH3OH. It is also known as methyl alcohol, or abbreviated to meths.
It is the simplest alcohol, and is a light volatile[?], flammable[?] poisonous liquid that is used as an antifreeze[?], solvent, fuel and as a denaturant[?] for ethyl alcohol.
Also referred to as wood alcohol, due to its ready production by dry distillation from wood and other organic substances. Itīs obtained majoritarily from petroleum. The organic methanol has been suggested as an alternative
fuel to petroleum-based hydrocarbons.
The chemical structure is:
H
|
H-C-OH
|
H
Methanol burns in air forming carbon dioxide and water:
2 CH3OH + 3 O2 → 2 CO2 + 4 H2O
Although an alcohol, methanol is poisonous attacking the nervous system and causing blindness or death.
Physical Properties
Boiling Point: 64.7°C
Freezing Point: -97.8°C
