Ethanol is a form of alcohol used in commercially available gasoline as an additive and fuel. It is also the form of alcohol found in liquor, wine, and beer. Most gasoline sold in the United States includes up to 10% ethanol. Flex Fuel contains up to 85% ethanol. Ethanol is a plant-derived fuel that releases fewer hydrocarbons than petroleum-based fuels. Therefore, many consider ethanol and ethanol-blend fuels more environmentally friendly than pure petroleum gasoline. Ethanol has drawbacks, as it attracts water to a fuel system and can degrade fuel lines and other engine components over time. See also, Methanol.
