Ethane

What is Ethane?

Ethane is a hydrocarbon with the chemical formula C₂H₆. It is a colorless, odorless gas at standard temperature and pressure. Ethane is a simple alkane compound and is one of the main components of natural gas.

Chemical Structure

The chemical structure of ethane consists of two carbon atoms bonded together with single covalent bonds and each carbon atom is also bonded to three hydrogen atoms. The molecule is linear in shape.

Physical Properties

Molecular Formula: C₂H₆
Molar Mass: 30.07 g/mol
Boiling Point: -88.6°C
Melting Point: -182.8°C
Density: 1.356 kg/m³

Chemical Properties

Ethane is relatively unreactive compared to other hydrocarbons, but it can undergo combustion reactions in the presence of oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water. It can also be halogenated to form halogenated derivatives such as chloroethane and bromoethane.

Uses

Ethane is used primarily as a fuel and in the production of ethylene, which is a precursor for various plastics and chemicals. It is also used as a refrigerant and as a propellant in aerosol sprays.

Study Guide Questions

What is the chemical formula of ethane?
What are the physical properties of ethane?
How does ethane react with oxygen?
What are the main uses of ethane?

◂Earth Science Worksheets and Study Guides High School. Rocks I

Vocabulary/Answer key

Rocks I

Vocabulary/Answer key

Rocks I

Vocabulary/Answer key

Rocks I

The resources above cover the following skills:

EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE

Earth’s Systems

Construct an explanation from evidence for the processes that generate the transformation of rocks in Earth’s crust, including chemical composition of minerals and characteristics of sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic rocks.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

Earth and Human Activity

Engage in argument from evidence to defend how coastal, marine, and freshwater sources (e.g., estuaries, marshes, tidal pools, wetlands, beaches, inlets, rivers, lakes, oceans, coral reefs) support biodiversity, economic stability, and human recreation.