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Microbial Production of Alcohol 06:48, 8 March 2007 (UTC)
[edit] Microbial Production Of Alcohol
ALCOHOL- Alcohol(-OH) is a psychoactive substance, which means that it has the ability to change consciousness and to alter perceptions and behavior.
The alcohol found in beverages is known as ethanol(C2H5OH) or ethyl alcohol. This is the only type of alcohol that is safe to consume, and then only in small quantities. Approximately half of all alcohol is consumed by just 10% of the drinking population. A host of social issues plagues this group of heavy drinkers.
PRODUCTION OF ALCOHOL FERMENTATION Fermentation is a natural process in which airborne yeast settles on overriped fruits, honey, grain products, etc., and feeds on the sugars. The yeast breaks down certain starches in the sugars, and from this process ethyl alcohol and carbon dioxide are produced. DISTILLATION Distillation of alcohol increases its potency. This process, which was first developed around 800 A.D., involves collecting the steam from boiled alcoholic mash (wine, fruit, grain, etc.). The steam, which has a higher alcoholic content, is collected in a special apparatus. When cooled, the resulting liquid has a high alcohol content and a low water volume. PROOF Proof can be defined as twice the alcohol content of a drink. For example, a bottle of liquor that is designated as 110 proof would contain 55% alcohol.
Types of alcohol that are not safe to drink. They can be toxic and even fatal if consumed. They include:
1.Butyl alcohol, or butanol. This type of alcohol, derived from butane, is commonly used in products such as adhesives and varnishes.
2.Methyl alcohol, also known as methanol or wood alcohol. It is used in the manufacture of formaldehyde and as industrial solvent. During Prohibition wood alcohol gained notoriety as a mixing agent with ethyl alcohol to make liquor. Several people became blind after drinking this toxic mixture, as methyl alcohol causes swelling of the optic nerve, an irreversible condition.
3.Isopropyl alcohol, also known as rubbing alcohol, is a common household product. It is used as a disinfectant and as an ingredient in cologne and after-shave lotion.
4.Ethylene glycol, also known as antifreeze, is the most harmful type of alcohol. It should never be consumed, as it is deadly.
