Methanol, also known as methyl alcohol or
wood alcohol, is a simple alcohol with the chemical formula CH3OH. It is a
colorless, volatile liquid with a mild, slightly sweet odor. Methanol is the
simplest alcohol, consisting of a methyl group (CH3) linked to a hydroxyl group
(OH).
Here are some key details about methanol along with its CAS number:
- Chemical formula: CH3OH | BF3 · CH3OH
- Molecular weight: Approximately 32.04 g/mol
- CAS Number: 67-56-1| 373-57-9
- Appearance: Colorless liquid
- Odor: Mild, slightly sweet odor
- Melting point: Approximately -97.6°C
(-143.7°F)
- Boiling point: Approximately 64.7°C
(148.5°F)
- Density: Approximately 0.791 g/cm³ (at
20°C)
Methanol is widely used in various industrial, commercial, and scientific applications:
1. Chemical feedstock: Methanol is an important precursor in the synthesis of many chemicals, including formaldehyde, acetic acid, methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE), and various solvents and plastics.
2. Fuel: Methanol is used as an alternative fuel in some vehicles, particularly in racing cars and methanol-fueled electric power generation systems. It can also be blended with gasoline to improve combustion and reduce emissions.
3. Solvent: Methanol is a versatile solvent used in the manufacture of paints, varnishes, adhesives, and other coatings. It is also used as a solvent in chemical reactions and laboratory procedures.
4. Antifreeze: Methanol is used as an antifreeze agent in windshield washer fluid, cooling systems, and de-icing solutions due to its low freezing point and ability to lower the freezing point of water.
5. Denaturant: Methanol is often added to ethanol to denature it, making it unfit for human consumption. Denatured alcohol is used in industrial processes, cleaning products, and personal care items.
Despite its widespread use, methanol can be toxic if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin in large quantities. It can cause poisoning, blindness, and even death, so proper handling and safety precautions are essential when working with methanol.
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