ethanediol
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Definition
- Noun:
- A sweet but poisonous syrupy liquid used as an antifreeze and solvent: Ethanediol is a colorless, viscous, hygroscopic liquid with a sweet taste. It is a diol (an alcohol containing two hydroxyl groups) and is a key ingredient in automotive antifreeze and coolant formulations. Its toxicity is a significant hazard, as ingestion can be fatal.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The mechanic warned that ethanediol, while effective, must be handled with care due to its toxicity.
- Ethanediol is a common component in de-icing fluids for aircraft.
Advanced Usage
- Chemical Context: In industrial and chemical terminology, "ethanediol" is the systematic IUPAC name, emphasizing its structure as a two-carbon chain with alcohol groups on each end. It is often discussed in contexts of organic synthesis, polymer production (e.g., polyethylene terephthalate for plastics and fibers), and as a humectant.
- The production of this polyester requires ethanediol as a monomer.
Variants and Related Words
- Ethylene glycol: This is the most common industrial and commercial name for ethanediol. The terms are often used interchangeably, though "ethanediol" is more formal.
- Most automotive antifreeze is based on ethylene glycol.
- Monoethylene glycol (MEG): A technical name used in the chemical industry to distinguish it from diethylene or triethylene glycol.
- 1,2-ethanediol: A precise synonym specifying the position of the hydroxyl groups on the carbon chain.
Synonyms
- Ethylene glycol: The primary synonym.
- 1,2-ethanediol: A systematic chemical synonym.
- MEG: An acronym used in industrial contexts.
Related Phrases / Compound Terms
- Ethanediol poisoning: Refers to the medical condition resulting from ingestion of the substance.
- Symptoms of ethanediol poisoning can resemble alcohol intoxication initially.
- Ethanediol-based antifreeze: A descriptive term for the most common application.
- Ethanediol-based antifreeze lowers the freezing point of water in a car's cooling system.
Noun
- a sweet but poisonous syrupy liquid used as an antifreeze and solvent