Difference between revisions of "Propane"
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[[Category:Gases]] | [[Category:Gases]] | ||
Revision as of 14:59, 4 December 2015
Propane is an organic chemical compound, normally a gas at standard conditions, but compressible to a transportable liquid. It has the chemical formula C3H8.
Contents
Properties
Chemical
In the presence of excess oxygen, propane burns to form water and carbon dioxide, releasing large amounts of heat.
- C3H8 + 5 O2 → 3 CO2 + 4 H2O + heat
Physical
Propane is a colorless, odorless gas at standard conditions. It boils at around −42°C and freezes at −187.7 °C.
Availability
Propane is available in LPG tanks, usually mixed with other alkanes or alkenes and thiols. This combination is generally used for gas grills.
Preparation
Propane can be prepared by heating a mixture of sodium butyrate and sodium hydroxide.
Projects
- Make propene
- Make nitromethane
- Halopropanes
Handling
Safety
Propane is nontoxic, but may pose asphyxiation risk through oxygen deprivation if inhaled. When compressed propane is released, the gas expands and cools, presenting a frostbite hazard.
Storage
Liquified propane should be stored away from heat sources.
Disposal
Propane can be burned safely, as it will not release toxic byproducts.
