State the uses of ethanol as: (a) a solvent (b) a fuel

Organic Chemistry – Alcohols

Uses of Ethanol as a Solvent

Ethanol, written as $C_2H_5OH$, is a versatile solvent. Think of it as a “mix‑and‑match” friend that can dissolve many different substances, just like a good friend who can chat with anyone at a party. It is especially useful in chemistry labs because it is:

• Non‑toxic and relatively safe to handle.
• Highly polar, so it can dissolve both polar and some non‑polar compounds.
• Easy to evaporate, leaving behind the dissolved substance.
• Compatible with many common laboratory glassware and equipment.

Uses of Ethanol as a Fuel

Ethanol can also power engines, similar to how a car’s battery powers its lights. When burned, it releases energy that can be harnessed to move a vehicle. Key points:

1. Combustion reaction: $C_2H_5OH + 3O_2 \rightarrow 2CO_2 + 3H_2O$
2. Produces less carbon monoxide ($CO$) compared to gasoline, making it cleaner.
3. Can be blended with gasoline (e.g., E10, E85) to reduce fossil fuel use.
4. Renewable source: produced from plant sugars, so it’s a green fuel.