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Methanol, also known as wood alcohol or
methyl alcohol, is a colorless, volatile, and flammable liquid with the
chemical formula CH3OH. Here are some details about methanol:
1. Chemical Formula: CH3OH
2. CAS (Chemical Abstracts Service) Number: 67-56-1
3. Molecular Weight: Approximately 32.04
g/mol
4. Physical Properties:
-
Appearance: Methanol is a clear, colorless liquid with a slightly sweet odor.
-
Density: Approximately 0.7918 g/cm³ at 20°C (68°F).
-
Melting Point: -97.6°C (-143.7°F)
-
Boiling Point: 64.7°C (148.5°F)
-
Solubility: Miscible with water and most organic solvents.
5. Chemical Properties:
-
Methanol is the simplest alcohol, consisting of a methyl group (-CH3) bonded to
a hydroxyl group (-OH).
- It
is a polar molecule due to the presence of the hydroxyl group, which makes it
soluble in water and other polar solvents.
-
Methanol can undergo various chemical reactions, including oxidation to form
formaldehyde and further oxidation to form formic acid.
- It
is less acidic than water but can still react with strong bases to form
methoxide ions.
6. Production:
-
Methanol is primarily produced from the catalytic conversion of synthesis gas
(a mixture of carbon monoxide and hydrogen) in the presence of a catalyst such
as copper.
- It
can also be produced by the destructive distillation of wood, hence the name
"wood alcohol."
7. Uses:
-
Fuel: Methanol is used as an alternative fuel in internal combustion engines,
fuel cells, and as a gasoline additive (e.g., in methanol blends) to reduce
emissions and improve octane ratings.
-
Solvent: It is a versatile solvent used in various industrial processes,
including paint, varnish, and ink production, as well as in the manufacture of
adhesives, coatings, and plastics.
-
Chemical Intermediate: Methanol serves as a precursor for the synthesis of
formaldehyde, acetic acid, methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE), and other organic
compounds.
-
Antifreeze: Methanol is used as a component in antifreeze formulations,
especially in windshield washer fluids, due to its low freezing point and
ability to depress the freezing point of water.
-
Denaturant: Methanol is added to ethanol to render it unfit for consumption
(denatured alcohol) for use in industrial, automotive, and household products.
8. Health and Safety:
-
Methanol is toxic and can cause serious health effects if ingested, inhaled, or
absorbed through the skin, including blindness, neurological damage, and death.
- It
is flammable and should be handled with caution. Vapors can form explosive
mixtures with air, and liquid methanol can ignite if exposed to an ignition
source.
-
Proper ventilation and personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and
goggles, should be used when handling methanol to minimize exposure.
Methanol is a widely used chemical with various industrial, commercial, and scientific applications. However, its toxicity and flammability require careful handling, storage, and safety precautions to ensure safe usage.
If you need further information or have specific questions, feel free to ask!