Question

what is distinctive test for ethyl alcohol and methyl alcohol?

Answer 1

The solution in the ethanol test-tube should go cloudy and then a yellow precipitate of tri-iodo-methane (iodoform) should be seen. This has a distinct 'antiseptic' smell. The methanol test-tube should remain clear. Ethanol is the only primary alcohol which will give the reaction and ethanal the only aldehyde.