Ethanol is an organic compound with a massive impact on everyday life. Its usefulness is overlooked most of the time as we don’t know how versatile this compound can be. It is mostly prepared by fermenting plant-based organisms. From ancient times, ethanol has been made for various purposes. Modern science has elevated the use and effectiveness of this compound to a great level.
Specimen Preservation: Prevents Degradation
Ethanol is largely used to preserve biological specimens. A 70% solution of ethanol is used for this case. Ethanol is toxic to microorganisms. It kills bacteria and slows the decay of the concerned specimen. It causes a little shrinkage in the specimen and keeps the shape intact. It has been used as a preservative for more than a hundred years.
Antifreeze Solution: Don’t Let it Freeze
In cold regions, one of the main problems in automobiles is the bursting of the carburetor due to the freezing of water in it. As water freezes, the volume increases and gives pressure on the carburetor. This problem can be solved by using Raoult's law on the depression of the freezing point. When ethanol is added to water, it can decrease the freezing point of the resulting solution. This prevents freezing and keeps the carburetor safe.
Medicines: Solvent for Help
In various medicines, ethanol is used as a common solvent. Mostly ethanol can be found in cough syrups. It helps to maintain the stability of the components present in the syrup. In modern days, it is being used to treat methanol and ethylene glycol toxicity. A certain percentage of ethanol is always maintained cautiously in these cases of medicines.
Fuels: Good Alternate
Ethanol can be converted into a mixture that works well as a fuel. Ethanol is mixed with gasoline in various percentages to form different fuels for automobile devices. Even in some places in Europe and in Brazil, fuel with a much higher percentage of ethanol is being used. In the upcoming crisis of energy and natural fuel source, ethanol can be used as a good alternative.
Medical uses: sterilise Before Use
Ethanol is a good solvent for organic substances. It can dissolve bacteria easily. Medical equipment is sterilised before any kind of use to prevent infection. Ethanol can be used as a steriliser in this scenario. It dissolves any microorganisms on the medical instrument when rinsed. The leftover ethanol evaporated after that.
