Lecture on Ethyl Alcohol and Its Properties

These flashcards cover important terminology and concepts related to ethyl alcohol, its properties, uses, and effects as discussed in the lecture.

Ethanol

Commonly known as ethyl alcohol, it is a volatile and flammable alcohol used in beverages and as a solvent.

Volatile

A characteristic of substances that evaporate easily at room temperature, typically having low boiling points.

Hydroxyl Group

The functional group (-OH) characteristic of alcohols, including ethanol.

Miscible

The ability of liquids to mix in all proportions without separating.

Denaturation

The process of altering the natural structure of proteins, often done by agents like ethanol.

CNS Depressant

A substance, such as alcohol, that slows down brain activity and can impair cognitive functions.

Acetic Acid

A product of ethanol oxidation that is often known as vinegar.

Antidiuretic Hormone (ADH)

A hormone that helps regulate urine flow, which is inhibited by alcohol consumption.

Disulfiram

A drug used to deter alcohol consumption by inhibiting the metabolism of ethanol.

Teratogen

An agent or factor which causes malformation or abnormal development of an embryo or fetus.

Carcinogen

A substance capable of causing cancer in living tissue.

Fermentation

A metabolic process that converts sugars to acids, gases, or alcohol using microorganisms.

Esterification

A chemical reaction between an alcohol and a carboxylic acid to form an ester and water.

Combustion Test

A test that involves burning a substance to identify its characteristics, such as the blue flame color produced by ethanol.

Flammable

A characteristic of a substance that can easily ignite and burn.

Hydroscopic

The ability of a substance to absorb moisture from the air.

GABA (Gamma-aminobutyric Acid)

The main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system.

Oxidation

A chemical reaction involving the loss of electrons, often associated with metabolism processes such as ethanol conversion.

Alcohol Dehydrogenase

An enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of ethanol to acetaldehyde during metabolism.

Inhibitory Neurotransmitter

A neurotransmitter that reduces neuronal excitability and decreases the likelihood of action potentials.

Gasohol

A blend of ethanol and gasoline used as fuel.