absolute alcohol

noun

Meaning

Ethanol that has been processed to remove virtually all water content, typically reaching a purity of 99% or higher.

Examples

  • The laboratory protocol requires absolute alcohol for the precise preparation of the chemical reagent.
  • Because absolute alcohol is highly hygroscopic, it must be stored in a tightly sealed container to prevent it from absorbing moisture from the air.

Synonyms: ethanol, anhydrous ethanol, pure alcohol, dehydrated alcohol