Question

How to differentiate between ethanol and methanol at home

Answer 1

To differentiate between ethanol and methanol at home, you can perform a simple flame test. Dip a clean toothpick into the methanol, then into a salt or powder, and wave it through the flame from a Bunsen burner. Observe the color of the flame to determine whether it is blue (methanol) or yellow (ethanol).

Step-by-step explanation:

To differentiate between ethanol and methanol at home, you can perform a simple flame test.

1. Dip a clean toothpick into the methanol.
2. Dip the toothpick into a salt or powder.
3. Wave the toothpick through the flame from a Bunsen burner, avoiding direct contact with the flame.
4. Observe what happens.

Methanol will produce a blue flame, while ethanol will produce a yellow flame. This is because methanol burns more cleanly than ethanol, giving off a less visible flame.