Environmental Impact of Methanol
Methanol has both positive and negative environmental impacts. Here are some of the leading environmental impacts of methanol:
- Global Warming Potential: Methanol production has a low global warming potential, especially when produced from wood biomass.
- Air Pollution: Methanol is released into the environment during industrial uses and naturally from volcanic gases, vegetation, and microbes. Exposure to methanol can cause irritation of the eyes, nose, mouth, and throat. It can lead to liver damage, headaches, cardiac depression, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, optic nerve damage, dizziness, and a feeling of intoxication.
- Hydrocarbon Airborne Emissions: Methanol fuel significantly reduces the reactivity of hydrocarbon emissions from automobiles, which can help reduce air pollution.
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Methanol Formula
Methanol is the simplest form of alcohol, which is colorless, volatile, and highly flammable. Methanol is also referred to as Methyl Alcohol or Wood Alcohol. It is an excellent fuel and has the potential to run automobiles, fuel cells, and gas stoves. It plays an essential role in various reactions, ranging from esterification to acting as a hydrogen source.
In this article, we will study methanol, its structure, properties, production methods, along with its environmental impact in detail.
Table of Content
- What is Methanol
- Methanol Formula
- Structure of Methanol
- Properties of Methanol
- Production of Methanol
- Reactions using Methanol