Question

Fuels Name three alkanes used as fuels and describe an additional application for each.

Short answer

Three alkanes used as fuels are methane (\(CH_4\)), ethane (\(C_2H_6\)), and propane (\(C_3H_8\)). Methane's additional application includes its use as a raw material for the production of ammonia, methanol, and other chemicals in the petrochemical industry. Ethane is primarily used as a feedstock for producing ethylene, which is a raw material for various polymers, plastics, and organic materials in industries such as packaging, electronics, and textiles. Propane's additional application involves its use as a refrigerant, propellant, and portable heat supplier in systems like portable stoves for camping, barbecues, and propane-powered vehicles.

Step-by-step solution

Understand Alkanes

Alkanes are a class of organic compounds consisting of only carbon and hydrogen atoms. They are also known as hydrocarbons and are characterized by single covalent bonds between their carbon atoms. The general formula for an alkane is \(C_nH_{2n+2}\), where 'n' is the number of carbon atoms.

Identify Three Alkanes Used as Fuels

Some common alkanes that are used as fuels include methane, ethane, and propane. These are the first three alkanes in the series, with their respective chemical formulas as follows: 1. Methane (\(CH_4\)) 2. Ethane (\(C_2H_6\)) 3. Propane (\(C_3H_8\))

Describe an Additional Application for Each

Along with their use as fuels, each of these alkanes has other applications: 1. Methane: Additional application: As a major component of natural gas, methane is commonly used as a heating fuel for homes and businesses. In addition, it is used as a raw material in the petrochemical industry, primarily for the production of ammonia, methanol, and other chemicals. 2. Ethane: Additional application: Ethane is primarily used as a feedstock for producing ethylene, which is the raw material for a wide range of polymers, plastics, and other organic materials. These materials are used in industries ranging from packaging to electronics and even textiles. 3. Propane: Additional application: Apart from its use as a fuel, propane is also used as a refrigerant, propellant, and to supply portable heat. It is often used in systems such as portable stoves for camping, barbecues, and propane-powered vehicles.

Key concepts

Methane applications

Methane, the simplest alkane, is widely used as a fuel due to its high energy content. It is the main component of natural gas and is efficient for heating homes and powering businesses. Additionally, methane plays a crucial role in the petrochemical industry. It is a key raw material for producing chemicals like ammonia and methanol, which are essential in manufacturing fertilizers, plastics, and various other products.

• Heat source: Used in heating and cooking.
• Chemical manufacturing: Provides raw material for ammonia and methanol.
• Substantial energy source: Offers a clean-burning alternative to coal.

Methane's versatility makes it a significant player in both energy and industry sectors.

Ethane applications

Ethane, another alkane, is primarily used as a feedstock in the production of ethylene. Ethylene is a fundamental building block for many polymers and plastics, making ethane indispensable in the chemical industry. These materials are integral to manufacturing diverse products, from packaging materials to textiles and electronics.

• Ethylene production: Vital for creating polymers and plastics.
• Industrial importance: Supports a wide array of industries.
• High demand: Essential for modern manufacturing processes.

Ethane's application in producing ethylene highlights its pivotal role in both industry and everyday life.

Propane applications

Propane is a versatile fuel often used for its portability and effectiveness. It's a popular choice for outdoor grilling, camping stoves, and heating systems. Beyond its role as a fuel, propane serves as a refrigerant and propellant, showcasing its adaptability in various contexts.

• Portable fuel: Great for camping stoves and barbecues.
• Alternative energy source: Used in propane-powered vehicles.
• Refrigerant and propellant: Utilized in different industrial applications.

Propane's multi-functional nature makes it an essential component in both residential and commercial settings.

Hydrocarbons

Hydrocarbons are organic compounds made solely of carbon and hydrogen. They come in various forms, such as alkanes, alkenes, and alkynes, each with unique properties and applications. In organic chemistry, hydrocarbons are fundamental due to their role in forming complex molecules and serving as fuels.

• Basic structure: Comprises carbon and hydrogen atoms.
• Classifications: Includes alkanes, alkenes, and alkynes.
• Essential for industry: Key components in energy and chemical sectors.

Understanding hydrocarbons is crucial for exploring their diverse uses in everything from fuel production to chemical manufacturing.

Organic Chemistry

Organic chemistry focuses on the study of carbon-containing compounds, primarily hydrocarbons and their derivatives. This branch of chemistry is essential for understanding the molecular foundation of life and the industry.

• Core concept: Studies carbon-based compounds.
• Diverse applications: Influences pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and more.
• Innovation driver: Fuels advancements in technology and materials.

Organic chemistry provides insights into the properties and reactions of organic compounds, enabling advances in various scientific and industrial fields.