Why is ethanol used in vodka?

* It's the primary ingredient that provides the alcoholic effect. Ethanol is the type of alcohol that humans can safely consume, and it's responsible for the intoxicating effects of vodka.

* It's a neutral-tasting alcohol. Unlike other types of alcohol, ethanol has a relatively neutral flavor, making it a good base for mixing with other ingredients. Vodka's lack of distinct flavor allows it to be used in a wide variety of cocktails and mixed drinks without interfering with the other flavors.

* It's easily produced. Ethanol is relatively easy to produce through fermentation of grains like wheat, barley, rye, and corn. This makes it an affordable and readily available ingredient for vodka production.

While other types of alcohols exist, they are not used in vodka because they either have unpleasant flavors, are toxic, or are not suitable for consumption.