Which type of alcohol is intended for human consumption?

Ethyl alcohol, also commonly known as ethanol, is the type of alcohol that is intended for human consumption. It is the active ingredient found in alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine, and spirits. Ethanol is metabolized by the body and has effects on the central nervous system, which is why it can lead to intoxication when consumed in sufficient quantities.

In contrast, methyl alcohol (methanol) and isopropyl alcohol (isopropanol) are toxic substances that can cause severe health issues, including blindness or death if ingested. They are used for industrial and medicinal purposes but are not safe for consumption. Phenyl alcohol (phenol) is also not suitable for drinking and is used primarily as a disinfectant or in the production of plastics and other chemicals. The distinction lies in the chemical structure and properties of these alcohols, where only ethyl alcohol is safe and widely accepted for human ingestion.