Methanol, also known as methyl alcohol or wood alcohol, is a colorless, volatile, and highly flammable liquid with a characteristic odor. Here are some key properties and uses of methanol:
_Properties_
1. _Chemical Formula_: CH3OH
2. _Molecular Weight_: 32.04 g/mol
3. _Appearance_: Colorless, transparent liquid
4. _Solubility_: Soluble in water, soluble in organic solvents
5. _pH_: 7 (1% aqueous solution)
6. _Boiling Point_: 64.7°C (148.5°F)
7. _Melting Point_: -93.9°C (-136.9°F)
_Uses_
1. _Fuel_: Methanol is used as a fuel in internal combustion engines, either as a pure fuel or as a blend with gasoline.
2. _Solvent_: It is used as a solvent in various industrial and laboratory applications, such as cleaning surfaces, dissolving oils and greases, and preparing solutions.
3. _Antifreeze_: Methanol is used as an antifreeze in windshield washer fluids and other applications.
4. _Denaturant_: It is used as a denaturant in ethanol to make it undrinkable.
5. _Pharmaceuticals_: Methanol is used as a solvent and intermediate in the production of certain pharmaceuticals, such as vaccines and antibiotics.
_Benefits_
1. _High Energy Density_: Methanol has a high energy density, making it a suitable fuel for internal combustion engines.
2. _Low Cost_: It is a relatively low-cost fuel compared to other alternatives.
3. _Wide Availability_: Methanol is widely available and can be produced from various sources, including natural gas, coal, and biomass.
4. _Low Emissions_: Methanol can reduce emissions of greenhouse gases and other pollutants when used as a fuel.
