What is the boiling point of alcohol compared to water?

The boiling point of alcohol, specifically ethanol, is generally around 173°F (78.5°C), while the boiling point of water is 212°F (100°C) at sea level. This significant difference is primarily due to the molecular structure and intermolecular forces of the two substances. Water molecules are held together by stronger hydrogen bonds, requiring more energy (in the form of heat) to break these bonds and transition into a gaseous state. Conversely, the weaker intermolecular forces in ethanol mean it vaporizes at a lower temperature.

This understanding is crucial when discussing distillation processes and the handling of spirits, as it influences flavor extraction, the efficiency of fermentations, and how different spirits should be stored and served. The comparison of these boiling points helps to illustrate how they not only affect the production techniques but also the final product characteristics.