Why pure alcohol is less effective than aqueos alcohol?

The statement that "pure alcohol is less effective than aqueous alcohol" requires some clarification. It's important to understand the context in which you're asking this question.

Here's why:

* "Alcohol" refers to ethanol, the type found in alcoholic beverages.

* "Effective" can mean different things depending on the context.

Here are some scenarios and explanations:

1. Disinfection:

* Pure ethanol (100%) is generally LESS effective as a disinfectant than a diluted solution. This is because pure ethanol denatures proteins too quickly, creating a barrier that prevents it from penetrating further into microorganisms.

* Aqueous solutions (e.g., 70% ethanol in water) are more effective because the water allows the ethanol to penetrate the cell walls of microbes more effectively.

2. Absorption into the Body:

* Pure ethanol is absorbed into the bloodstream faster than dilute solutions. This is because pure ethanol is less viscous and can diffuse more readily across cell membranes.

* However, this faster absorption doesn't necessarily mean it's more effective. It simply means the effects of the alcohol are felt more quickly.

3. Other Uses:

* Pure ethanol can be used in certain applications like fuel for engines or as a solvent, but it's not typically used for disinfecting or consumption.

In summary:

It's not accurate to say that pure alcohol is always less effective than aqueous alcohol. The effectiveness depends on the specific context and what you're trying to achieve. For disinfection, diluted solutions are generally preferred, while for rapid absorption into the body, pure ethanol is faster.