History of Ethanol

	Revision 7 . . December 10, 2001 8:28 pm by ManningBartlett [joke removed (sorry!) - some medical details added]
	Revision 6 . . December 10, 2001 4:48 pm by Szopen [I know it's old joke, but i just can't stop myself :))))]
	Revision 5 . . November 7, 2001 3:17 pm by Anders Torlind [Some more links]

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Ethanol is an alcohol, and in common usage is the alcohol referred to as present in alcoholic drinks such as beer, wine, vodka? and spirits. It has the chemical formula CH3CH2OH. Amount of ethanol causing death is about 0,24%, except for Poles and Russians.

Ethanol is a type of alcohol, and is the specific alcohol contained in "alcoholic" drinks such as beer, wine, vodka? and spirits. It has the chemical formula CH3CH2OH.

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In its pure form (Anhydrous - without water) it is highly toxic. Even in moderate concentrations the body (specifically the liver) has to work hard to break down the ethanol into aldehydes and ketones. These impurities combined with general dehydration? (due to Ethanols dieretic effects) are what is responsible for the hangover experienced by people who over indulge.

In its pure form (Anhydrous - without water) it is highly toxic. Even in moderate concentrations the body (specifically the liver) has to work hard to break down the ethanol into aldehydes and ketones. These impurities combined with general dehydration? (due to Ethanols dieretic effects) are what is responsible for the hangover experienced by people who over indulge. In high dosages and/or over sustained periods ethanol consumption can causes serious injury or disease. Even moderate consumption can cause non-permanent cirrhosis? of the liver. A blood ethanol content in excess of 0.25% is typically fatal, although regular heavy drinkers can tolerate higher blood alcohol contents.