Ethylene (C₂H₄)
Ethylene (C₂H₄) is a simple hydrocarbon and the simplest alkene. Here are the key specifications and properties of ethylene:
1. Chemical Identity:
- Chemical Formula: C₂H₄
- Molecular Weight: 28.05 g/mol
- CAS Number: 74-85-1
2. Physical Properties:
- Appearance: Colorless gas at room temperature can be a liquid when compressed and cooled.
- Odor: Sweet odor (in low concentrations, ethylene is generally odorless).
- Boiling Point: -103.7°C (-154.7°F)
- Melting Point: -169.4°C (-272.9°F)
- Density (Gas): 1.178 kg/m³ (at 0°C and 1 atm)
- Density (Liquid): 0.685 g/cm³
- Solubility in Water: 0.0017 g/100 mL at 20°C
3. Chemical Properties:
- Flammability: Highly flammable flash point -103°C (-153.4°F)
- Auto-Ignition Temperature: 450°C (842°F)
- Reactivity: Ethylene is reactive, particularly in the presence of catalysts it participates in a variety of addition reactions.
4. Uses and Applications:
- Industry: Used primarily in the production of polyethylene (a common plastic), as well as in the manufacture of ethylene glycol, ethylene oxide, and other chemicals.
- Agriculture: Utilized as a plant hormone to accelerate fruit ripening.
- Chemicals: Ethylene is a feedstock in various chemical processes including the production of styrene, vinyl chloride, and other important chemicals.
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