What is the Difference Between Isopropyl and Ethanol?

Isopropyl alcohol (IPA) and ethanol are both commonly used alcohols with a wide range of applications. While they share similarities, they also exhibit distinct characteristics that make them suitable for different purposes. Here are the main differences between isopropyl and ethanol:

1. Chemical Structure: IPA has one more carbon atom and two more hydrogen atoms than ethanol. Ethanol has two carbon atoms, while IPA has three.
2. Polarity: IPA is a slightly more polar molecule than ethanol.
3. Disinfectant Effectiveness: IPA is generally considered to be more effective as a disinfectant than ethanol.
4. Fuel Effectiveness: Ethanol is more effective than IPA as a fuel.
5. Toxicity: IPA is more toxic than ethanol. Drinking isopropyl alcohol is extremely dangerous and can easily lead to alcohol poisoning. It's about twice as potent as ethyl alcohol.

Both alcohols are colorless liquids with distinct odors. IPA has a boiling point of 82.6°C (180.7°F), while ethanol boils at 78.5°C (173.3°F). They are both used as disinfectants, antiseptics, and in various manufacturing processes. However, due to its lower toxicity, ethanol is the preferred choice for products like hand sanitizers and disinfecting wipes.

Comparative Table: Isopropyl vs Ethanol

Here is a table comparing the differences between isopropyl alcohol (IPA) and ethanol:

Please note that this table summarizes the key differences between isopropyl alcohol and ethanol. For a more detailed understanding of their properties and applications, please refer to the search results and the sources provided.