Glycerol (also known as glycerine) is a simple polyol compound with the chemical formula: \[ C_3H_8O_3. \]
It has: Three carbon atoms, Three hydroxyl (-OH) groups, making it highly hydrophilic and soluble in water.
Structure: \[ \text{CH}_2\text{OH} - \text{CHOH} - \text{CH}_2\text{OH}. \]
Applications: Used as a sweetener in food, An important ingredient in pharmaceutical formulations.