What is another name for ethanol?

Ethanol is also known as ethyl alcohol. This is because its chemical structure consists of two carbon atoms, making it a member of the alcohol family, and its IUPAC name is derived from its ethyl group (C2H5) and an -OH hydroxyl group that characterizes alcohols. Ethyl alcohol is commonly referred to as ethanol in many contexts, especially in the field of chemistry, pharmacology, and beverage production.

Isopropyl alcohol refers to a different compound, known as isopropanol, which has three carbon atoms and is used primarily as a disinfectant. Methyl alcohol, or methanol, is a one-carbon alcohol, significantly more toxic than ethanol and used as an industrial solvent. Butyl alcohol, on the other hand, refers to several alcohols with four carbon atoms, which are distinct from ethanol. Thus, the terminology surrounding ethanol emphasizes its specific structure and functional characteristics, leading to its recognition as ethyl alcohol.