We have already learnt in eleventh standard that the hydrolysis of an alkyl halide gives an alcohol, an organic compound containing hydroxyl (-OH ) functional group. Many organic compounds containing –OH group play an important role in our body. For example, cholesteryl alcohol commonly known as cholesterol is an important component in our cell membrane. Retinol, the storage form of vitamin A, finds application in proper functioning of our eyes. Alcohols also find application in many areas like medicine, industry, etc., For example, methanol is used as an industrial solvent, ethyl alcohol an additive to petrol, isopropyl alcohol as a skin cleanser for injection, etc., The hydroxyl group of alcohol can be converted to many other functional groups. Hence, alcohols are important resource in synthetic organic chemistry. In this unit, we will learn the preparation, properties and uses of alcohols, phenols and ethers.