ethane

Ethane is the simplest structural form of a hydrocarbon.

Chemical Formula: C₂H₆

Other names: ethane

Layman's explanation: Ethane is a colorless, odorless gas that is practically insoluble in water. It burns in air and is the second largest component of natural gas. Ethane is widely used industrially because it can easily be converted to ethylene through a process called cracking. The important derivatives of ethane are ethyl alcohol, acetaldehyde, and acetic acid.

Keywords: natural gas, cracking, hydrocarbon

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