ethane etymology

Etymology

The word "ethane" comes from the Greek word "aither" (αἰθήρ), which means "upper air" or "heaven."

Meaning

Ethane is a hydrocarbon with the chemical formula C2H6. It is a colorless, odorless gas that is the second member of the alkane hydrocarbon series.

Origin

In 1834, the American chemist Michael Faraday discovered ethane by heating ethyl alcohol (ethanol) with concentrated sulfuric acid. He characterized it as a "peculiar hydrocarbon" that was different from methane and ethylene.

The name "ethane" was first proposed by the German chemist August Kekulé in 1860. He suggested the name based on the Greek word "aither" because ethane is a very volatile and flammable gas that rises in the air.

Additional Notes

  • Ethane is a saturated hydrocarbon, meaning that it has only single bonds between its carbon atoms.
  • Ethane is a nonpolar molecule, meaning that it does not have a permanent dipole moment.
  • Ethane is used as a fuel in gas stoves, lighters, and welding torches.
  • Ethane is also used as a feedstock for the production of ethylene, which is a major industrial chemical.

ethane relate terms

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  • ethane

    Etymology The word ethane comes from the Greek word aither αἰθήρ which means

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    Etymology Aesthetic derives from the Greek word aisthētikos which means pertaining

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