CAS Number: 67-56-1. A lightweight, volatile, flammable, poisonous,
liquid alcohol used especially as a solvent, antifreeze, or
denaturant to create ethyl alcohol. Also used in the synthesis of
other chemicals. Chemical formula = CH3OH. Molecular weight =
32.04 g/mol.
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Methanol is released to the environment during industrial uses
and naturally from volcanic gases, vegetation, and microbes.
Exposure may occur from ambient air and during the use of
solvents. Acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term) exposure of
humans to methanol by inhalation or ingestion may result in
blurred vision, headache, dizziness, and nausea. No information
is available on the reproductive, developmental, or carcinogenic
effects of methanol in humans. Birth defects have been observed
in the offspring of rats and mice exposed to methanol by
inhalation. EPA has not classified methanol with respect to
carcinogenicity.