Final answer:
Today's vodka producers aim to create a very pure spirit, keeping some subtle flavors from its original base materials. Vodka contains 40.0% ethanol by volume, and its production has a rich history, dating back to the widespread of spirits in the 15th century in Europe.
The correct answer is choice 2) strive to produce as pure a spirit as possible while maintaining some characteristics of the base material.
Step-by-step explanation:
Today's producers of vodka strive to produce as pure a spirit as possible while maintaining some characteristics of the base material. This approach to vodka production emphasizes the removal of impurities and the achievement of a clean, neutral flavor profile, though some subtle flavors originating from the original base materials, such as wheat, rye, or potatoes, might remain present.
Vodka is typically 80 proof, which means it contains 40.0% ethanol by volume, with the remaining 60% being water.
The density of pure ethanol, which is a key component of vodka, is 0.789 g/mL at 20°C. Ethanol is not only central to vodka's strength, but it also contributes to the final product's character. In 80-proof vodka, the ethanol functions as a solvent, and the water acts as the solute, creating a clear, almost neutral solution.
The production of vodka has evolved from its historical roots when spirits like gin, vodka, and whisky became widespread in Europe during the 15th century, following the Middle Ages when beer and wine were the main alcoholic beverages.
The correct answer is choice 2) strive to produce as pure a spirit as possible while maintaining some characteristics of the base material.