Ethanol is a clear, colorless liquid, which can prepared by fermentation of certain carbohydrates. It is used as a topical disinfectant as it has bactericidal activity. It is the primary ingredient in alcoholic beverages, and is widely used as a solvent and preservative in pharmaceutical preparations. As a solvent of substances intended for human contact or consumption, it is widely used in colorings, scents, flavorings, and medicines.