The process of creating a solution with a 70% ethanol concentration typically involves diluting a higher concentration ethanol source with water. This procedure adjusts the strength of the ethanol to the desired percentage, impacting its properties and applications. For instance, if starting with 95% ethanol, one would add a calculated amount of water to bring the ethanol concentration down to 70%.
A 70% ethanol solution is frequently utilized in various applications due to its effectiveness as a disinfectant and solvent. The presence of water in this concentration enhances ethanol’s ability to penetrate cell walls, making it more efficient at killing bacteria and viruses than higher concentrations of ethanol alone. Historically, this concentration has been a standard in laboratories, hospitals, and in the production of cleaning and sanitizing products.
