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. Itīs 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