What is Methanol?

Methanol is the simplest form of alcohol with the formula CH3OH. It was first notably used in the embalming process made famous by the ancient Egyptians. Jean-Baptiste Dumas and Eugene Peligot founded its compound in 1834. It is most commonly used as solvents, an antifreeze in pipes, and in alcohol stoves. It also is used to fuel cars with internal combustion engines. Most commonly, it is used to create other chemicals. To make methanol, there are 3 different practiced methods.
1. CH₄ + H₂O → CO + 3 H_{2 (methane reacts with steam)}
2. 2 CH₄ + O₂ → 2 CO + 4 H_{2 (steam methane reforming)
3.} CO + H₂O → CO₂ + H₂, (exothermic as opposed to the above endothermic reaction)