Ethanol Interesting Essay Topic Ideas

Ethanol is an organic chemical compound composed of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen atoms It is a colorless and odorless alcohol commonly used as a fuel, fuel additive, and solvent. Ethanol is created through the fermentation of agricultural crops such as corn, wheat, and sugarcane, as well as from cellulosic biomass sources like wood chips, switchgrass, and corn stalks. Ethanol is a renewable form of energy and is a much cleaner burning alternative to petroleum-based fuels. Ethanol is an incredibly versatile and useful substance. Here are five of the most common and beneficial ways in which ethanol is used: 1. Automotive Fuel: Ethanol is most commonly used as fuel additive for gasoline in automotive engines, mainly in the form of E10 fuel which is a 10% ethanol and 90% gasoline blend. E10 is the most commonly used fuel in the United States and it is estimated that roughly 95% of all gasoline sold in the country contains some level of ethanol. 2. Industrial Solvents: Ethanol is used as a solvent in many industrial processes. It is particularly useful for extractions and separations because of its low boiling point and ability to dissolve a wide variety of materials including proteins, polysaccharides, and lipids. 3. Alcoholic Beverages: Ethanol is the main active ingredient in alcoholic beverages and is produced through fermentation of various fruits, grains, and vegetables. It is a key component of beers, wines, and spirits such as vodka and tequila. 4. Biofuel: Ethanol is increasingly being used as a renewable source of energy in the form of biofuel. Ethanol can be used in pure form or blended with gasoline in ratios such as E85 (85% ethanol and 15% gasoline) or E100 (100% ethanol). 5. Pharmaceuticals: Ethanol is used as a solvent for many pharmaceutical drugs and is found in a variety of over-the-counter medications such as cough syrups, tinctures, and elixirs. It is also used as a preservative.