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Difference between methanol and ethylene glycol
1. Chemical structure of the different
1.1 Molecular Formula and Structural Formula
The molecular formula of methanol is CH, OH, and the chemical structure is a hydroxyl group (-OH) connected to a methyl group (CH); the molecular formula of ethylene glycol is HOCH₂ CH OH, and the chemical structure is two hydroxyl groups connected to an ethyl group (CH).
1 of the structural formula
The structural formula of methanol can be expressed: CH₃-OH The structural formula of ethylene glycol can be expressed: HO-CH₂-CH₂-OH
1.3 structural similarities and differences
Both methanol and ethylene glycol contain hydroxyl groups in the structure, but ethylene glycol has two hydroxyl groups, the structure is more complex, and has symmetry. Methanol has a smaller number of carbon atoms and a smaller molecular weight, while ethylene glycol has a larger number of carbon atoms and a larger molecular weight.
2. Physical properties of the contrast
2.1 Boiling Point and Stability
Methanol has a low boiling point of about 64.7°C, while ethylene glycol has a high boiling point of about 197.8°C. The stability of ethylene glycol is good, but under high temperature or strong oxidation conditions, ethylene glycol may decompose or react with other substances.
2.2 density and solubility
Methanol has a density of 0.795g/cm³ and ethylene glycol has a density of 1.114g/cm³. Ethylene glycol is more soluble and more soluble in water than methanol, making it more common in industry and laboratories.
2.3 color and smell
Both methanol and ethylene glycol are colorless liquids, but ethylene glycol has a lighter odor, while methanol has a distinct alcohol odor. This odor difference can help identify the two alcohols in the laboratory.
3. The main purpose of the different
3.1 industrial applications
Methanol is mainly used in the chemical industry to produce intermediate products such as ethanol and methyl ether, and is also used to produce biofuels such as methanol gasoline. Ethylene glycol is commonly used to produce products such as acetic acid and ethyl acetate, and is also used as a biofuel and solvent.
3)
Ethylene glycol is often used as a solvent and coolant due to its high stability. For example, in electronics manufacturing and automobile manufacturing, ethylene glycol is used as a cleaning agent and coolant.
3.2 life application
Methanol is used less in life, but ethylene glycol is used as an additive in some foods and cosmetics. For example, ethylene glycol can be used as a food additive for food preservation and flavoring.
4. Safety and storage
4.1 security
Methanol is flammable and toxic, and should be protected immediately when in contact with skin or eyes. Ethylene glycol is relatively safe, but may decompose at high temperatures, and protective equipment should be worn when in contact with skin.
4.2 storage conditions
Both methanol and ethylene glycol should be stored in a cool and dry environment away from direct sunlight. Due to its high stability, ethylene glycol can be stored at room temperature for a long time, while methanol needs to be protected from light and fire to prevent moisture and heat.
5. Summary
Methanol and ethylene glycol are two alcohols with significant differences in chemical structure and application. Methanol has a low boiling point and high toxicity, mainly used in industrial production; ethylene glycol has a high stability, wide Applications, especially in the field of biofuels and solvents more common. The choice of which alcohols to use depends on the specific application needs and safety requirements. Correctly understanding and mastering the difference between these two alcohols is of great significance for improving production efficiency and ensuring safety.
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