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💏intro to chemistry review

C2H5OH

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

C2H5OH, also known as ethanol, is a simple organic compound composed of two carbon atoms, five hydrogen atoms, and one oxygen atom. It is a colorless, volatile, and flammable liquid that is widely used as a solvent, fuel, and in the production of various chemicals.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. C2H5OH is the simplest and most commonly encountered alcohol, with a wide range of applications in industry, medicine, and consumer products.
  2. Ethanol is produced commercially through the fermentation of sugars, typically from sources such as corn, sugarcane, or other biomass.
  3. As an electrolyte, C2H5OH can participate in various chemical reactions and influence the conductivity of solutions.
  4. The presence of the hydroxyl group in C2H5OH gives it unique physical and chemical properties, including the ability to form hydrogen bonds.
  5. Ethanol is a central nervous system depressant and can have various physiological and psychological effects when consumed in excess.

Review Questions

  • Explain how the chemical structure of C2H5OH (ethanol) contributes to its properties as an electrolyte.
    • The presence of the hydroxyl (-OH) group in the C2H5OH molecule allows it to dissociate into ions when dissolved in a solvent, such as water. This dissociation results in the formation of positively charged hydrogen ions (H+) and negatively charged ethoxide ions (C2H5O-), which can then conduct electricity through the solution. The ability of C2H5OH to form ions and participate in electrolytic processes is a key characteristic that influences its behavior in various chemical and biological systems.
  • Describe the role of C2H5OH (ethanol) in the fermentation process and its connection to electrolytes.
    • Fermentation is a metabolic process in which sugars are converted into alcohols, such as C2H5OH (ethanol), and carbon dioxide by microorganisms like yeast. During fermentation, the yeast cells utilize enzymes to break down the sugar molecules, releasing energy and producing ethanol as a byproduct. The presence of ethanol in the fermentation mixture can influence the electrolytic properties of the solution, as ethanol is a polar molecule that can dissociate into ions and affect the overall conductivity of the system. Additionally, the byproducts of fermentation, including ethanol and carbon dioxide, can interact with other electrolytes present in the solution, further impacting the electrolytic characteristics of the fermentation process.
  • Analyze the potential implications of the electrolytic properties of C2H5OH (ethanol) in various applications and contexts.
    • The electrolytic properties of C2H5OH (ethanol) can have significant implications in various applications and contexts. In industrial settings, the ability of ethanol to participate in electrolytic processes can be leveraged in the production of certain chemicals and fuels. Additionally, the presence of ethanol as an electrolyte in biological systems, such as the human body, can influence the transport of ions, the regulation of fluid balance, and the overall physiological functions. Furthermore, the electrolytic characteristics of ethanol can play a role in its interactions with other substances, potentially affecting the solubility, reactivity, and behavior of various chemical compounds. Understanding the electrolytic properties of C2H5OH is crucial in understanding its broader implications and applications across different fields, from chemistry and biology to engineering and medicine.