The correct answer is option (2) Glycol.
Antifreeze or engine coolant is a liquid added to the radiator of a vehicle's engine to help regulate its temperature. It serves a few important functions:
1. Temperature Regulation: The primary function of engine coolant is to absorb and dissipate the heat generated by the engine during combustion. This prevents the engine from overheating and ensures it operates within the optimal temperature range.
2. Freeze Protection: Engine coolant also contains additives that lower the freezing point of the liquid. This is crucial in cold weather conditions, as it prevents the coolant from freezing and potentially damaging the engine and radiator.
3. Corrosion Prevention: Coolants often include corrosion inhibitors to protect the metal components of the engine and radiator from rust and corrosion. The cooling system in a vehicle contains various metals, such as aluminum, steel, and copper, and these can corrode over time without proper protection.
The most common type of coolant used in vehicles is ethylene glycol, which is a type of glycol. Glycols are a class of organic compounds that contain hydroxyl groups (-OH) on two adjacent carbon atoms. Ethylene glycol is preferred because it has excellent thermal properties, a high boiling point, and effective freeze protection.
To answer your question specifically:
Methyl alcohol (Option 1): While methanol has some cooling properties, it is not commonly used as a coolant in vehicle radiators due to its toxicity and other disadvantages.
Glycol (Option 2): This is the correct answer. Glycol, particularly ethylene glycol, is widely used as a coolant in vehicle radiators.
Nitrophenol (Option 3): Nitrophenol is not used as a coolant in vehicle radiators. It is a chemical compound with nitro and phenol functional groups.
Ethyl alcohol (Option 4): While ethanol (ethyl alcohol) can be used as a fuel additive, it is not commonly used as a coolant in vehicle radiators. Ethylene glycol is the more typical choice for this application. |
