Understanding the Chemical Formula C₂H₆: Composition, Properties, and Reactions of Ethane

C₂H₆

C₂H₆ refers to the chemical formula for ethane

C₂H₆ refers to the chemical formula for ethane. Ethane is an organic compound and is a member of the alkane family, which means it consists of only carbon and hydrogen atoms.

The formula C₂H₆ indicates that there are two carbon atoms (C₂) and six hydrogen atoms (H₆) in one molecule of ethane. The carbon atoms are connected by a single bond, and each carbon atom is bonded to three hydrogen atoms.

Ethane is a colorless, odorless gas at room temperature and pressure. It is a nonpolar molecule, meaning it has no net dipole moment due to the symmetrical arrangement of the carbon-hydrogen bonds. Ethane is highly flammable and is commonly used as a fuel for heating and cooking.

In terms of its chemical properties, ethane can undergo combustion reactions to produce carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water (H₂O). The balanced equation for the combustion of ethane is:

C₂H₆ + 3.5O₂ → 2CO₂ + 3H₂O

Ethane can also undergo substitution reactions, where one or more hydrogen atoms are replaced by a different atom or group of atoms. For example, chlorination of ethane (substituting hydrogen with chlorine) can result in the production of chloroethane:

C₂H₆ + Cl₂ → C₂H₅Cl + HCl

Overall, understanding the chemical formula C₂H₆ allows us to know the molecular composition of ethane and predict its behavior in various reactions.

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