Which type of alcohol is primarily used for recreational consumption?

Ethyl alcohol, also known as ethanol, is the type of alcohol primarily used for recreational consumption. It is the active ingredient found in alcoholic beverages, such as beer, wine, and spirits. Ethanol is produced through the fermentation of sugars by yeast and is safe for human consumption in moderate amounts.

In contrast, methyl alcohol (methanol) and isopropyl alcohol (isopropanol) are toxic to humans and are used for industrial purposes or as disinfectants rather than for drinking. Propylene glycol, while safer for ingestion than methanol or isopropyl alcohol, is mainly used as a food additive and in the pharmaceutical industry, rather than as a recreational beverage. These distinctions underscore why ethyl alcohol is the clear choice for recreational use among the options provided.