The first member of the homologous series of alkanols, with the formula CH₃OH. This compound was originally obtained by the destructive distillation of wood as a by-product in the preparation of charcoal, hence the older name wood alcohol. Methanol is a highly flammable liquid, boiling point 64.7°C (149°F), and is miscible with water and most organic liquids. It is a highly poisonous substance; sublethal amounts can cause permanent blindness.