In order to properly understand the correlation between ethanol and biodiesel, one must first learn about each separately, and then they will be able to fully understand the relationship that is existent between the two matters. Ethanol and biodiesel are similar in many regards, and so all of the correlations between ethanol and biodiesel truly must be taken into serious consideration.
What is Ethanol?
Ethanol is basically a flammable, colorless, and mildly toxic chemical compound with a distinctive perfume-like odor and it is the alcohol that is found in alcoholic beverages; in more common usage, it is simply referred to as alcohol.
Ethanol has been used by humans since as far back as prehistoric times, and although it has also been used for more negative reasons, such as for explosive devices due to its flammable nature, it also has been considered as positive in means of alcohol and other products of the like; ethanol has been used as a treatment substance for as far back as prehistoric times as well, and so this is looked upon as being positive.
Not only that, but ethanol is the chemical compound which is presently considered as being what is going to take the place as our gasoline; this is an incredibly important topic especially considering the fact that we are in a raging war with Iraq and that this is where we depend on our fuel for the most part.
What is Biodiesel?
Biodiesel is a term which refers to a diesel-equivalent, processed fuel derived from biological sources, and though derived from biological sources, it must be known that it is in fact a processed fuel which can be readily used in that of diesel-engined vehicles, which thus distinguishes biodiesel from the more straight vegetable oils.
What is the Relationship Between Ethanol and Biodiesel?
In regards to the actual relationship between ethanol and biodiesel, the most important factor that must be taken into consideration is the fact that these are the two main choices that are questioned in regards to which is better for the environment overall, and which is going to be what we use for the most part for the longest period of time. Ethanol for the most part however is considered as being the better choice, and this is for several different reasons.
However, there are also many benefits to biodiesel, and so these two must be taken properly into consideration.