Rubbing alcohol and isopropyl alcohol are two common household chemicals that are often used for similar purposes. However, there are some key differences between the two.
Isopropyl alcohol is a pure alcohol with a concentration of 99%. It is a colorless liquid with a sharp, pungent odor. Isopropyl alcohol is a powerful solvent and a disinfectant. It is also flammable and can be toxic if ingested.
Rubbing alcohol is a solution of isopropyl alcohol and water. It typically contains between 70% and 99% isopropyl alcohol. The remaining volume is made up of water, as well as small amounts of other ingredients, such as denaturants and fragrance. Denaturants are added to rubbing alcohol to make it unpalatable and to prevent it from being used to make alcoholic beverages.
Here is a table summarizing the key differences between rubbing alcohol and isopropyl alcohol:
| Feature | Rubbing alcohol | Isopropyl alcohol |
|---|---|---|
| Concentration | 70-99% isopropyl alcohol | 99% isopropyl alcohol |
| Other ingredients | Water, denaturants, fragrance | No other ingredients |
| Uses | Disinfectant, solvent, cleaning agent | Disinfectant, solvent, industrial applications |
| Toxicity | Less toxic than isopropyl alcohol | More toxic than rubbing alcohol |
| Flammability | Flammable | Flammable |
When to use rubbing alcohol
Rubbing alcohol is a good choice for general household use. It is a safe and effective disinfectant for cleaning and disinfecting surfaces. It can also be used to reduce fever, clean wounds, and relieve muscle aches.
When to use isopropyl alcohol
Isopropyl alcohol is a more powerful solvent than rubbing alcohol. It is often used in industrial applications, such as cleaning electronics and manufacturing. It is also used in some medical applications, such as disinfecting surgical instruments.
Safety precautions
Both rubbing alcohol and isopropyl alcohol are flammable. They should be kept away from heat and open flames. They should also be used in well-ventilated areas.
If you get either rubbing alcohol or isopropyl alcohol on your skin, wash it off with soap and water. If you ingest either substance, call a poison control center immediately.