What is the chemical symbol for alcohol?

The chemical symbol for the type of alcohol found in beverages is C₂H₅OH. It is known as ethyl alcohol, ethanol or grain alcohol. Other types of alcohol include methanol and isopropanol, which are poisonous to drink.

Alcohol refers to any chemical compound that has an -OH functional group. There are four main types: methyl alcohol, ethyl alcohol, propyl alcohol and butyl alcohol. Ethyl alcohol can be consumed by humans if it does not contain any toxic impurities. It is produced by fermenting yeast, starches and sugars, such as those found in grapes and wheat. Consuming large amounts of alcohol can have harmful effects on the body, such as liver damage and cardiovascular disease.