Chemical Structure of Isopropyl Alcohol vs. Ethanol
When comparing isopropyl alcohol vs. ethanol, one of the simplest differences to look at is the chemical structure of each compound. Isopropyl alcohol has a chemical formula of C3H8O, and it is comprised of an isopropyl group bonded to a hydroxyl group. Ethanol has a chemical formula of C2H6O- compared to isopropyl alcohol, it has one fewer carbon atom and two fewer hydrogen atoms. It consists of an ethyl group attached to a hydroxyl group.
Both compounds, therefore, are alcohols. However, each possesses several unique properties. Read on to learn more about what characterizes isopropyl alcohol vs. ethanol.
Physical Properties of Isopropyl Alcohol vs. Ethanol
Isopropyl alcohol and ethanol are both clear, colorless liquids with strong odors. However, isopropyl alcohol has a molar mass of 60.10 g/mol, and ethanol has a slightly lower molar mass of 46.07 g/mol. Furthermore, isopropyl alcohol’s melting point is about -89ºC and its boiling point is about 82.6ºC, whereas ethanol has a melting point of about -114.14ºC and a boiling point of about 78.23ºC. Thus, isopropyl alcohol has a greater melting point and boiling point than ethanol.
Uses of Isopropyl Alcohol vs. Ethanol
One important factor to look at when contrasting isopropyl alcohol vs. ethanol is their uses. Some of isopropyl alcohol’s common uses include:
- Household cleaning solution
- Ingredient in hand sanitizers
- Antiseptic
- Astringent
- Solvent
- Swimmer’s ear treatment
A few common uses of ethanol include:
- Component of gasoline for cars
- Food additive to increase flavor
- Preservative for cosmetics
- Solvent
- Astringent
- Ingredient in hand sanitizers
This comparison of the uses of isopropyl alcohol vs. ethanol shows that they share certain uses, such as being solvents, astringents, and hand sanitizer ingredients. However, they each exhibit certain unique uses as well.
Additionally, both alcohols have many other applications that are not listed here. If you are trying to compare isopropyl alcohol vs. ethanol to decide which one would be best for a specific use, a quick internet search will yield many articles and studies that can help you make your decision.
Where to Purchase Isopropyl Alcohol and Ethanol
Now that you have learned about some of the differences between isopropyl alcohol vs. ethanol, where should you buy these products? BulkChemicals2Go has the answer! We offer both types of alcohol, as well as a number of other industrial chemicals, and even custom solutions designed for specialized needs. In addition, our team of chemists is available to answer any questions you may have. You can contact us by emailing info@bulkchemicals2go.com or calling 800-563-1305. We look forward to hearing from you!