What are Alcohols is Chemistry?
Alcohol is a common organic compound that consists one or more hydroxyl (OH) groups. The general formula of alcohol is R-OH, where R represents the alkyl group. The molecules of alcohol attached to the carbon atom of alkyl groups or hydrocarbon chain. Most of the alcohols are colorless liquid. Based on the bonding of carbon atoms to the hydroxyl groups, alcohol can be classified in three types namely – primary, secondary and tertiary. Alcohol is widely used in industries for manufacturing beverages and preparing perfumes.
Types of Alcohols
Alcohol can be classified based on the hydroxyl group attached as primary, secondary, and tertiary. Let’s discuss these types in detail as follows.
- Primary Alcohols
Primary alcohols can be defined as the carbon atom that contains -OH group is attached only to an alkyl group. The examples of primary alcohols are Methanol (propanol), ethanol, butanol etc.
- Secondary Alcohols
Secondary alcohols can be defined as a hydroxyl group attached to carbon atom which is connected to two alkyl groups. The examples of secondary alcohols are propan-2, butan-2-ol etc.
- Tertiary Alcohols
Tertiary alcohols can be defined as the carbon atom that carries -OH group, is attached directly to three alkyl groups. The groups may be same or different. The examples of tertiary alcohols are 2-methypropan-2-ol, 2-methylbutan-2-ol etc.
Difference Between Alcohol and Phenol
Alcohols and phenols are both classes of organic compounds containing a hydroxyl (-OH) functional group. However, while they both feature hydroxyl groups, they differ fundamentally from each other. Alcohols have hydroxyl groups attached to alkyl carbon atoms, whereas phenols have the hydroxyl group directly attached to an aromatic benzene ring.
The difference between alcohol and phenol is very important from the perspective of class 11 and 12 students, especially for those preparing for the NEET exam. In this article, we will explore the differences between alcohol and phenol, including their definitions, properties, types, and many other important terms.
Table of Content
- What are Alcohols is Chemistry?
- What are Phenols?
- Physical Properties Comparison
- Chemical Properties Comparison
- Difference between Alcohol and Phenol
- FAQs on Alcohol and Phenol