What is the Difference Between Ethylene Glycol and Diethylene Glycol?

Ethylene glycol and diethylene glycol are both organic compounds derived from ethylene, but they have different molecular structures and properties. The main differences between them are:

1. Molecular Structure: Ethylene glycol is an individual molecule derived from ethylene oxide, while diethylene glycol is a combination of two ethylene glycol molecules via an ether bond.
2. Chemical Formula: Ethylene glycol has the chemical formula C2H6O2, and diethylene glycol has the chemical formula C4H10O3.
3. Molar Mass: The molar mass of ethylene glycol is 62 g/mol, while the molar mass of diethylene glycol is 106.12 g/mol.
4. Toxicity: Both ethylene glycol and diethylene glycol are toxic, but they induce different modes of death in rats. Ethylene glycol induced oxalate deposition within the kidney without significant histologic changes, while diethylene glycol induced histologic changes within the kidneys without kidney oxalate deposition.

Both ethylene glycol and diethylene glycol are metabolized via alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) and can be treated with fomepizole to block ADH. They are used in various applications, such as antifreeze, brake fluid, lubricants, wallpaper strippers, mold release agents, and inks.

Comparative Table: Ethylene Glycol vs Diethylene Glycol

Here is a table comparing the differences between ethylene glycol and diethylene glycol:

Both ethylene glycol and diethylene glycol are organic compounds with applications in the production of coolants for engines. They are colorless, odorless, and have a sweet taste. However, diethylene glycol is more poisonous than ethylene glycol.