Alcohol

Alcohol in general terms is a molecule containing a hydroxyl group, i.e. an -OH group. Alcohols can be divided according to the number of -OH groups in the molecule as follows:
 * 1 -OH group = primary alcohols,
 * 2 -OH group = secondary alcohols (diols),
 * 3 -OH group = tertialy alcohols (triols),
 * etc.

One of the most significant is ethanol - it can be used, for example, as a disinfectant, fuel, preservative and as a component of alcoholic beverages.

When consumed, alcohol affects the coordination of movements (it affects the cerebellum). Frequent consumption can lead to alcoholism, possibly causing a range of health complications, from euphoric (or depressive) states to severe liver damage.

Related articles

 * Alcoholism