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What is methanol vs ethanol?

GeneralClass 12AllAnswered 27 Mar 2026
Answer

Methanol (CH3OH) and ethanol (C2H5OH) are both simple alcohols but differ significantly. Methanol has one carbon atom while ethanol has two. Critically, methanol is highly toxic and can cause blindness or death if consumed, whereas ethanol is the type found in alcoholic beverages and is relatively safe in moderate amounts. Methanol is used industrially as a solvent and fuel, while ethanol serves as both a beverage ingredient and industrial chemical.

General · Class 12