Ethanol and Methanol

In organic chemistry, the two most basic forms of alcohol are ethanol and methanol. Alcohol is a molecule containing a –OH group at the end. Alcohols play a key part in organic chemical processes, and their amount of reactivity varies based on the carbon skeleton and other groups within the alcohol molecule. Ethanol is an abbreviation for Ethyl Alcohol, which means that the Carbon skeleton has two Carbon atoms. At the same time, methanol is an abbreviation for Methyl Alcohol, which means that the Carbon skeleton has just one Carbon atom. This is the primary distinction between Ethanol and Methanol.

Difference between Ethanol and Methanol

Ethanol

The chemical formula of ethanol is CH3CH2OH, which is formed by linking an ethyl group (CH3CH2-) to a hydroxide group (-OH). EtOH is another abbreviation. Ethanol is very flammable and volatile. Because of the creation of hydrogen bonds, it dissolves in water. Similarly, ethanol may combine with other alcohols. It is also a colourless liquid with a faint chemical odour. Aside from its many interactions with other organic solvents, ethanol also functions as a weak acid. Its acidity, however, is lower than that of water. In exchange, an ethoxide ion becomes more basic than a hydroxide ion.

Methanol

Methanol, commonly known as methyl alcohol, is created by attaching a methyl group (CH3-) to a hydroxide group (-OH), resulting in the chemical formula CH3OH. It is, however, sometimes shortened as MeOH. It’s also known as ‘wood alcohol’ since it was previously created as a byproduct of wood distillation. However, methanol is typically synthesised by catalysis from carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and hydrogen. Methanol is the most basic alcohol discovered in chemistry, and it is very volatile and combustible. It is likewise colourless and has an ethanol-like odour. Methanol may create hydrogen bonds with water and other alcohols, mixing effectively with them. Compared to ethanol, methanol has a greater acidity, which is also somewhat higher than water.

Key Differences

1. Formulas for chemicals

Ethanol, often known as ethyl alcohol, has the formula CH3CH2OH and comprises two carbon atoms. 

Methanol, commonly known as methyl alcohol, comprises just one carbon atom. It has the chemical formula CH3OH.

2. Ethanol and methanol properties

The two compounds have remarkably similar characteristics. Ethanol is a clear, colourless liquid solvent that is both explosive and volatile and has a distinct odour; when burnt, it generates a smokeless blue flame that isn’t always visible under normal light, and it evaporates when left open.

Similarly, methanol is a volatile, colourless, flammable liquid with a strong odour comparable to ethanol. When methanol is burnt, the flame is brilliant white rather than bright blue, as it is with ethanol.

3. Production

Over 90% of the ethanol generated worldwide is created by agricultural fermentation, with the remaining produced through ethene hydration. Barley, rice, maize, and wheat are examples of crops (also known as feedstock) utilized. Any crop or plant with a lot of sugar, such as starch or cellulose, may be employed.

Methanol is often produced on a large scale by reforming natural gas with steam. Consequently, a synthesized mixture is formed, transformed and distilled to produce methanol.

4. Physical consequences

You may consume ethanol in legal alcoholic beverages (in moderation, of course), and as most of us know, it causes drunken headaches and nausea. Industrially generated ethanol is dangerous and should never be consumed since it is fatal.

Similarly, methanol is exceedingly dangerous. It should never be consumed, breathed, or come into touch with your skin. Even a very little dosage may cause blindness and even death.

5. Uses

Aside from being a fundamental element in alcoholic beverages, ethanol is a universal solvent utilized in sectors ranging from cosmetics and pharmaceuticals to household cleaning products, essential oils, and paint. It’s also utilised in internal combustion engines as a fuel additive.

Methanol is primarily employed in chemical synthesis, as a gasoline additive similar to ethanol, as a solvent, and in antifreeze formulations.

The following are the primary distinctions between ethanol and methanol:

Conclusion

The most basic alcoholic chemicals are ethanol and methanol. The main difference between ethanol and methanol is that ethanol is less hazardous and may be used in drinks, while methanol is toxic and thus cannot be used in beverages.