Bioethanol
Bioethanol
Bioethanol (pronounced: /ˌbaɪoʊˈiːθənɒl/), also known as ethanol or simply alcohol, is a renewable energy source derived from plants and plant waste. It is a type of biofuel that is primarily used as a substitute for gasoline in vehicles.
Etymology
The term "bioethanol" is derived from the Greek words "bios" meaning life and "aithalos" meaning sooty. The prefix "bio-" signifies that the ethanol is derived from biological sources, as opposed to synthetic or petroleum-based sources.
Production
Bioethanol is produced through the fermentation of sugars by yeast. The sugars are typically derived from crops such as corn, sugarcane, and wheat, but can also come from agricultural waste or other biomass. The process involves breaking down the carbohydrates in the plant material into simple sugars, which are then fermented by the yeast to produce ethanol and carbon dioxide.
Use
Bioethanol is primarily used as a fuel for internal combustion engines, either on its own or blended with gasoline. It can also be used in the production of ethanol fuel cells, which generate electricity through a chemical reaction between ethanol and oxygen.
Environmental Impact
Bioethanol is considered a more environmentally friendly alternative to fossil fuels, as it is derived from renewable sources and produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions. However, the cultivation of crops for bioethanol production can have negative environmental impacts, including deforestation and soil degradation.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Bioethanol
- Wikipedia's article - Bioethanol
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