Isopropanol and ethanol are both alcohols, but there are significant differences in their properties that make them suitable for different applications. In this article, we will explore the reasons why isopropanol is used instead of ethanol in various situations.

Isopropanol, also known as 2-propanol, is a colorless, viscous liquid with a slightly sweet aroma. It is miscible with water and most organic solvents. Isopropanol is commonly used as a solvent in various chemical reactions and as a cleaning agent for engines and other industrial equipment.

On the other hand, ethanol is also an alcohol but with a different structure. It is commonly used as a solvent and disinfectant, but its properties make it less suitable for some applications.

Let’s look at some of the reasons why isopropanol is preferred to ethanol:

1. Solvent power: Isopropanol has stronger solvent power compared to ethanol. It can dissolve a wide range of substances, making it suitable for use in various chemical reactions where solubility is essential. Ethanol’s solvent power is relatively weaker, limiting its use in some chemical reactions.

2. Boiling point: Isopropanol has a higher boiling point than ethanol, which means it can be used at higher temperatures without evaporating easily. This makes it suitable for industrial applications where heat resistance is required, such as in the cleaning of engines and other machinery.

3. Solvent miscibility: Isopropanol has better miscibility with water and most organic solvents compared to ethanol. This makes it easier to use in various mixtures and formulations without causing phase separation or precipitation. Ethanol, on the other hand, has a tendency to separate from water at high concentrations, making it less suitable for some mixtures.

4. Biodegradability: Both isopropanol and ethanol are biodegradable, but isopropanol has a higher biodegradability rate. This means it breaks down more quickly in the environment, reducing any potential impact on the environment compared to ethanol.

5. Safety considerations: Isopropanol has a lower flammability limit compared to ethanol, making it safer to handle and transport. It also has lower toxicity, reducing the risk of exposure to operators and the environment. Ethanol, although less toxic than some other solvents, has a higher flammability limit and should be handled with caution.

In conclusion, the choice between isopropanol and ethanol depends on the specific application and requirements. Isopropanol’s stronger solvent power, higher boiling point, better miscibility with water and organic solvents, higher biodegradability rate, and safer handling properties make it a more versatile and preferred alcohol for many industrial and commercial applications compared to ethanol.