Alcohols are organic compounds that contain one or more hydroxyl groups (-OH) attached to a carbon atom. The most common type of alcohol is ethanol, which is the type found in alcoholic beverages. Alcohols can be classified into different categories based on their structure, such as primary, secondary, and tertiary alcohols, which refer to the number of carbon atoms connected to the carbon bearing the hydroxyl group.
In addition to their use in drinks, alcohols have various applications in everyday life. They are used as solvents in cleaning products, as fuel in alcohol stoves, and in the production of medications. While moderate consumption of ethanol can be enjoyable, excessive intake can lead to health issues, making it important to drink responsibly.