Methanol
Contents
Key Stage 3
Meaning
Methanol is a compound with chemical formula CH3OH.
About Methanol
- Methanol is a transparent liquid (at room temperature).
- Methanol can be oxidised to produce Carbon Dioxide and Water.
- Methanol + Oxygen → Carbon Dioxide + Water
Key Stage 4
Meaning
Methanol is an alcohol molecule with chemical formula CH3OH.
About Methanol
- Methanol is a transparent liquid (at STP).
| Chemical Formula (CnH2n+2) | Structural Formula | Structural Diagram | Ball and Stick Model |
| CH3OH | CH3OH |  |
 |
- The combustion of methanol produces Carbon Dioxide and Water.
- Methanol + Oxygen → Carbon Dioxide + Water
\(2CH_3OH + 3O_2 → 2CO_2 + 4H_2O\)
- Methanol can also be oxidised at low temperatures to produce Water and the Carboxylic Acid; Methanoic Acid.
\(CH_3OH + O_2 → CHOOH + H_2O\)
References
AQA
- Methanol, page 238, GCSE Chemistry, CGP, AQA
- Methanol, page 242, GCSE Chemistry; Student Book, Collins, AQA
- Methanol, pages 160, 162, GCSE Chemistry; Third Edition, Oxford University Press, AQA