[Locutus]

Hello,
I have a question that has been bugging me and some colleagues ( I work at a hospital ).

If alcohol (70% hand rubbing alcohol) is applied to wet hands, there is a notable heat sensation.
Can someone help us describe what is happening and why this is happening, please?

I have searched around for the answer, but hasn't found a satisfactory detailed answer to the processes involved.

Thank you

[Archer]

Water - water hydrogen bonds are breaking and new water - ethanol hydrogen bonds are forming. The formation of new hydrogen bonds is exothermic.

This gives a good, detailed explanation

http://alpha.chem.umb.edu/chemistry/ch118/118%20labs/lab%203%20heat%20of%20mixing.pdf