Methanol

Methanol is a chemical compound with chemical formula CH₃OH. It is also known as methyl alcohol, or abbreviated to meths.

It is the simplest alcohol, and is a light volatile[?], flammable[?] poisonous liquid that is used as an antifreeze[?], solvent, fuel and as a denaturant[?] for ethyl alcohol.

Also referred to as wood alcohol, due to its ready production by dry distillation from wood and other organic substances. It´s obtained majoritarily from petroleum. The organic methanol has been suggested as an alternative fuel to petroleum-based hydrocarbons.

The chemical structure is:

   H
   |
 H-C-OH
   |
   H

Methanol burns in air forming carbon dioxide and water:

2 CH₃OH + 3 O₂ → 2 CO₂ + 4 H₂O

Although an alcohol, methanol is poisonous attacking the nervous system and causing blindness or death.

Physical Properties

Boiling Point: 64.7°C

Freezing Point: -97.8°C