Skip to main content

Propane

ADVERTISEMENT
Identification
Molecular formula
C3H8
CAS number
74-98-6
IUPAC name
propane
State
State

At room temperature and atmospheric pressure, propane exists as a gas. However, it can be easily compressed into a transportable liquid. This property makes it a convenient fuel source for residential, commercial, and industrial uses.

Melting point (Celsius)
-187.70
Melting point (Kelvin)
85.45
Boiling point (Celsius)
-42.10
Boiling point (Kelvin)
231.05
General information
Molecular weight
44.10g/mol
Molar mass
44.0970g/mol
Density
2.0098g/cm3
Appearence

Propane is a colorless gas at room temperature and pressure. It is commonly stored and transported as a liquid under pressure for use as a fuel. In its liquid state, it is also colorless, and it turns into gas at normal atmospheric conditions.

Comment on solubility

Solubility of Propane (C3H8)

Propane is a hydrocarbon and is classified as an alkane. Understanding its solubility can be fascinating due to its unique behavior in various solvents.

Key Points About Solubility:

  • Nonpolar Nature: Being a nonpolar molecule, propane does not interact favorably with polar solvents like water.
  • Insolubility in Water: Propane is practically insoluble in water, with solubility levels around 0.02 g/100 mL at standard conditions.
  • Solubility in Organic Solvents: Conversely, propane is highly soluble in organic solvents such as:
    • Hexane
    • Toluene
    • Chloroform
  • Gas Behavior: As a gas at room temperature and atmospheric pressure, its solubility can vary significantly based on conditions such as temperature and pressure.
  • Applications: Propane's low solubility in water makes it an ideal fuel source and a widely used chemical in industrial applications.

In summary, the solubility of propane is largely dictated by its nonpolar characteristics, leading to poor interaction with polar solvents like water, but favorable solubility in organic environments. This intriguing property contributes to its versatile applications across different fields.

Interesting facts

Interesting Facts About Propane

Propane, a member of the alkane family, is a fascinating compound with numerous applications that make it a vital part of our everyday lives. Here are some compelling aspects to consider:

  • Energy Source: Propane is widely recognized as a clean-burning fuel. It is often used for heating, cooking, and powering engines. Notably, propane releases fewer greenhouse gases compared to other fossil fuels, making it an environmentally friendly choice.
  • Versatility: This compound is found in multiple forms, such as liquid propane and vapor, which adds to its versatility. It can be stored in compact tanks, making it highly convenient for both residential and industrial applications.
  • Odorant Addition: Even though propane is colorless and odorless in its natural state, it is typically mixed with a distinct odorant, usually ethyl mercaptan. This addition helps in detecting leaks, ensuring safety for its users.
  • Cooking and Grilling: Propane is the go-to fuel for outdoor grills and barbecues. Its efficiency and the ability to deliver high heat quickly make it a favorite among grilling enthusiasts.
  • Transport and Storage: Propane can be readily transported and stored in pressurized tanks. This ability allows for its wide distribution and accessibility in both urban and rural settings.

In summary, propane is more than just another hydrocarbon; it plays a crucial role in energy production and consumption. As a chemistry student or scientist, recognizing the impact of such compounds fosters a deeper understanding of both their utility and their role in the global energy landscape.

Remember, "There is no such thing as a bad fuel, only the wrong application of a good one." This principle truly encapsulates the significance of propane in our daily energy use!

Synonyms
PROPANE
n-Propane
Dimethylmethane
74-98-6
Propyl hydride
propan
Propyldihydride
Propane liquefied
A-108
Praseodymium doped ceria
Purifrigor p 3.5
HC 290
HSDB 1672
R 290
EINECS 200-827-9
CH3-CH2-CH3
INS NO.944
E944
UNII-T75W9911L6
CHEBI:32879
INS-944
T75W9911L6
130071-47-5
cerium oxide, praseodymium doped
DTXSID5026386
E-944
EC 200-827-9
PROPANE (II)
PROPANE [II]
PROPANE (MART.)
PROPANE [MART.]
Bottled gas
dimethyl methane
Propane [USAN:NF]
UN1978
C3H8
n-Propane-
Propane (NF)
Praseodymium Nanofoil
Propane, 98%
Freon 290
PROPANE [VANDF]
PROPANE [HSDB]
PROPANE [FCC]
PROPANE [MI]
Propane, 99.97%
PROPANE [WHO-DD]
LPG (liquefied petroleum gas)
CHEMBL135416
DTXCID006386
QSPL 135
Ultra Thin Praseodymium Nanofoil
DTXSID60174094
IPZJQDSFZGZEOY-UHFFFAOYSA-N
AKOS009159189
UN 1978
Propane, 99.95%, Messer(R) CANGas
NS00005747
InChI=1/C3H8/c1-3-2/h3H2,1-2H
C20783
D05625
Q131189
1DDB43B7-5E0D-48E4-8F15-3D3D5116098A
200-827-9