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Ethylene

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Identification
Molecular formula
C2H4
CAS number
74-85-1
IUPAC name
ethylene
State
State

Ethylene is a gas at room temperature.

Melting point (Celsius)
-169.40
Melting point (Kelvin)
103.80
Boiling point (Celsius)
-103.70
Boiling point (Kelvin)
169.50
General information
Molecular weight
28.05g/mol
Molar mass
28.0540g/mol
Density
0.0012g/cm3
Appearence

Ethylene is a colorless gas with a sweet and musky odor. It is the simplest alkene and a significant natural plant hormone used in agriculture as a plant ripening agent.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Ethylene (C2H4)

Ethylene, a simple hydrocarbon with the formula C2H4, demonstrates unique solubility characteristics in different solvents. Its solubility can be influenced by several factors, including temperature and pressure.

Solubility Characteristics:

  • Water: Ethylene is sparingly soluble in water at room temperature. This limited solubility arises because ethylene is a non-polar molecule, and water is polar, causing little interaction between the two.
  • Organic Solvents: Ethylene has good solubility in organic solvents such as ethanol, acetone, and benzene, owing to its non-polar nature that allows it to mix well with similar solvent types.
  • Temperature Dependency: As the temperature increases, the solubility of ethylene in water decreases slightly. In organic solvents, however, solubility can increase with temperature.

In practical applications, the low solubility of ethylene in water limits its use in aqueous processes but enhances its utility in non-aqueous systems. Thus, understanding these solubility properties is crucial for its handling and utilization in various chemical processes.

Interesting facts

Fascinating Insights into Ethylene

Ethylene, scientifically recognized as ethene, is a pivotal organic compound in both nature and industry. Here are some captivating facts to consider:

  • Natural Occurrence: Ethylene is a natural plant hormone, playing a crucial role in the ripening of fruits. It promotes processes such as fruit maturation and leaf abscission, making it essential for agricultural practices.
  • Production: Ethylene is one of the most produced organic compounds globally, with billions of kilograms generated annually. It serves as a fundamental building block for various plastics, including polyethylene, which is ubiquitous in our daily lives.
  • Applications: Beyond its role in plant biology, ethylene is a vital raw material in the chemical industry. It's utilized in the manufacture of:
    • Plastics (e.g., bags, containers)
    • Antifreeze solutions (ethylene glycol)
    • Detergents and emulsifiers
  • Environmental Impact: While ethylene is naturally occurring, it's also a potent greenhouse gas. Its atmospheric presence contributes to the effects of climate change, thus highlighting the importance of monitoring emissions associated with its production.
  • Significance in Research: Ethylene's unique properties have made it a subject of extensive scientific research. Studies focusing on its role as a signaling molecule in plants have unveiled insights into plant physiology and responses to environmental stress.

In essence, ethylene is not just a simple hydrocarbon; it encompasses a spectrum of biological and industrial significance, reinforcing its status as a remarkable compound in the realm of chemistry.

Synonyms
ETHYLENE
Ethene
Acetene
Elayl
Olefiant gas
74-85-1
Athylen
Etileno
Bicarburretted hydrogen
Liquid ethylene
Ethylene, pure
Caswell No. 436
Aethylen
Aethen
HSDB 168
C2H4
EPA Pesticide Chemical Code 041901
Liquid ethyene
EINECS 200-815-3
CH2=CH2
H2C=CH2
Ethylene (8CI)
Ethylene, compressed
UNII-91GW059KN7
DTXSID1026378
Ethene (9CI)
CHEBI:18153
91GW059KN7
CARBONEUM HYDROGENISATUM
EC 200-815-3
MFCD00084423
UN 1038
UN 1962
ETHYLENE (TRANS-1,2-D2)
Plastipore
ETHYLENE (IARC)
ETHYLENE [IARC]
ETHYLENE (II)
ETHYLENE [II]
R-1150
Athylen [German]
LDPE
Eteno
Ethylene [NF]
UN1038
UN1962
cis-alkene
Ethene, 9CI
Ethylene-d3 (gas)
ETHYLENE-CMPD
ETHYLENE [HSDB]
ETHYLENE [MI]
Ethylene, 99.99%
ETHENE (ETHYLENE)
Heavy carburetted hydrogen
Ethylene, >=99.5%
Ethylene, compressed [UN1962] [Flammable gas]
CHEMBL117822
DTXCID605931
Ethylene, purum, >=99.9%
CMC_13849
AKOS015915514
CARBONEUM HYDROGENISATUM [HPUS]
Polyethylene, low density, 500 micron
USEPA/OPP Pesticide Code: 041901
Ethylene, Messer(R) CANGas, 99.98%
Ethylene, puriss., >=99.95% (GC)
NS00013981
NS00131932
C06547
C19503
C22504
Ethylene, refrigerated liquid (cryogenic liquid)
Ethylene, compressed [UN1962] [Flammable gas]
Q151313
Q27286698
Ethylene, refrigerated liquid (cryogenic liquid) [UN1038] [Flammable gas]
200-815-3
87701-65-3