# Propanol, C3H8O

Propanol (C3H8O), also commonly referred to as propyl alcohol, comes in two isomeric forms: n-propanol (or 1-propanol) and isopropanol (or 2-propanol). These alcohols are clear, colorless liquids that are miscible with water and have a characteristic alcoholic odor. Both forms of propanol are used as solvents in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and chemical industries. n-Propanol is often employed in the manufacture of antiseptics, detergents, and disinfectants, whereas isopropanol, popularly known as rubbing alcohol, is used for its antiseptic properties and as a cleaning agent. In optics, the refractive properties of propanol can be explored when it's used as a medium or in conjunction with other materials to modify light behavior.

## Chemical formula

- 1-Propanol: CH3CH2CH2OH
- Isopropanol: (CH3)2CHOH

## Other names

1-Propanol | Isopropanol
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Propan-1-ol n-Propyl alcohol n-Propanol n-PrOH Ethylcarbinol 1-Hydroxypropane Propanol Propionic alcohol Propionyl alcohol Propionylol Propyl alcohol Propylic alcohol Propylol | Isopropyl alcohol 2-Propanol Propan-2-ol Isopropyl alcohol Rubbing alcohol Sec-propyl alcohol s-Propanol iPrOH IPA

## External links

- 1-Propanol - Wikipedia
- 1-Propanol - NIST Chemistry WebBook
- Isopropyl alcohol - Wikipedia
- Isopropyl alcohol - NIST Chemistry WebBook