Concept: Alcohols are important organic compounds containing the hydroxyl group (\(-OH\)). Ethyl alcohol (ethanol) and methyl alcohol (methanol) are widely used in industries due to their solvent properties and ability to undergo chemical reactions. Preparation of Ethyl Alcohol (Ethanol): (1) By Fermentation of Sugars: Sugars like glucose are fermented using yeast under anaerobic conditions. \[ C_6H_{12}O_6 \xrightarrow{\text{yeast}} 2C_2H_5OH + 2CO_2 \] Steps: Preparation of sugar solution (molasses or fruit juice) Addition of yeast Fermentation at \(25^\circ C - 35^\circ C\) Distillation to obtain pure ethanol (2) By Hydration of Ethene (Industrial Method): Ethene reacts with steam in presence of acid catalyst. \[ C_2H_4 + H_2O \xrightarrow{\text{H}_3\text{PO}_4} C_2H_5OH \] Industrial Uses of Ethyl Alcohol: As a Solvent: Used in perfumes, paints, varnishes, and pharmaceuticals. As Fuel: Used as biofuel and blended with petrol (gasohol). In Chemical Industry: Used in manufacture of acetic acid, ether, esters, and other organic compounds. Alternative: Methyl Alcohol (Methanol):Preparation: Produced by destructive distillation of wood or by catalytic reaction of carbon monoxide and hydrogen. \[ CO + 2H_2 \rightarrow CH_3OH \] Uses: Fuel and antifreeze Solvent in industries Manufacture of formaldehyde and plastics
