Ethanol (Ethyl alcohol)

Build a molecular model of Ethanol (ethyl alcohol) made with genuine Molymod parts from Indigo to show its structural features. Ethanol is a simple, small molecule with two carbon atoms and characterized by the hydroxyl Group (-OH) which makes it polar and soluble in water. It is volatile and rapidly absorbed in biological systems.

Ethanol, as a gasoline additive, reduces emissions & is produced by fermentation of sugars from corn, sugarcane, etc., for this purpose. As an industrial solvent it is used in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, perfumes, resins, dyes, paints, hand sanitizers, disinfectants, and antiseptics.

Its most popular use is in alcoholic beverages where it is quickly absorbed in the stomach & small intestine. Its principal effects are on the brain where it acts as a central nervous system depressant. It is processed in the liver and converted to acetaldehyde via the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase & then on to acetate by aldehyde dehydrogenase, ALDH) & is ultimately metabolised CO2 & water for energy.

A molecular model of Ethanol in the Molymod Hybrid Dome style uses the atoms & bonds in the parts list below. Our free 3D Molecular Model Builder shows other styles & allows for image rotation as an assembly guide.