Ethanol
Ethanol, C2H5OH, is the most common alcohol. It is a mild depressant when ingested, and is a common ingredient in many beverages. Besides its recreational use, ethanol is important to many industries and food preservation.
Contents
Production
Fermentation
Ethanol is easily produced from sugars by yeast through fermentation.
Artificial Production
Ethylene is hydrated to produce ethanol.
Use
Recreation
Ingestion of ethanol in food or drink causes intoxication. It is a mild depressant, and impares judgement and reduces inhibitions. Managed use of ethanol may be used to raise morale. Ethanol ingestion will likely be restricted heavily in a settlement due to the risk to oneself and others.
Food Preservation
Ethanol is used to preserve fruits and other foods.
Industrial Use
Ethanol is useful as a fuel. In contrast to most other chemical energy sources, ethanol is relatively non-toxic and unreactive.
Ethanol is an effective solvent for many chemicals.
