Is ethyl alcohol the same as ethanol?

Ethyl alcohol and ethanol are two different names for the same chemical compound. Since the compound is often used in alcoholic beverages, it is also known as drinking alcohol. In this article, we will tell you more about the characteristics of ethanol or ethyl alcohol, and explain why different names are used to refer to the same product.

What is ethanol?

Ethanol is another name for ethyl alcohol. The beginning of the word stems from the word ethane, the compounds carbon chain, while the suffix -ol is added to make clear it is an alcohol. Other alcohols are named the same way. Methyl alcohol, for instance, is also known as methanol, and isopropyl alcohol as isopropanol. The name ethanol was introduced in the year 1892.

What is ethyl alcohol?

Ethyl alcohol is an organic chemical compound with the formula C2H6O. The formula can also be written as CH3-CH2-OH or C2H5OH. Ethyl alcohol is also referred to as drinking alcohol, grain alcohol, or simply alcohol, as it is the only type of alcohol that is fit for human consumption and is often made from grains. The liquid is colourless, flammable and volatile. Its odour is reminiscent of wine. The product has many applications in the food and non-food industry. It can serve as the base for alcoholic beverages, is used as a chemical solvent in cosmetic and pharmaceutical products, and is used as an additive to fuels. On a dedicated page, you can read more about the uses of ethyl alcohol. The product can be naturally produced by fermenting sugars, as well as through chemical methods.

What is the difference between ethanol and ethyl alcohol?

Ethyl alcohol and ethanol are synonymous terms for the same chemical compound, commonly known as drinking alcohol. While "ethyl alcohol" denotes its chemical composition, "ethanol" emphasizes its organic nature. This versatile liquid finds extensive use across various industries, from beverages to cosmetics and fuels. Despite its diverse applications, both names mean the same product, with ethanol being the more scientifically recognized term.

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