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Analyse why ethylene is such an important starting material for the chemical industry - HSC - SSCE Chemistry - Question 20 - 2006 - Paper 1
Question 20
Analyse why ethylene is such an important starting material for the chemical industry. In your answer, include relevant chemical equations, and a description of new ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Analyse why ethylene is such an important starting material for the chemical industry - HSC - SSCE Chemistry - Question 20 - 2006 - Paper 1
Step 1
Importance of Ethylene in the Chemical Industry
Answer
Ethylene (C₂H₄) is a pivotal starting material in the chemical industry due to its versatility and the vast array of products it can generate. First, ethylene is one of the simplest alkenes, making it an ideal precursor for many synthetic pathways due to its reactive double bond. This reactive nature allows it to undergo various addition reactions, enabling the production of diverse compounds, including plastics, antifreeze, and detergents.
Step 2
Relevant Chemical Equations
Answer
One of the primary reactions involving ethylene is its polymerization to form polyethylene, a widely used plastic. The equation for this reaction can be represented as:
ightarrow ext{(C}_2 ext{H}_4 ext{)}_n$$ Additionally, ethylene can undergo combustion to produce water and carbon dioxide, expressed as: $$ ext{C}_2 ext{H}_4 + 3 ext{O}_2 ightarrow 2 ext{CO}_2 + 2 ext{H}_2 ext{O}$$Step 3
Materials and Fuels from Ethylene
Answer
From ethylene, various important materials and fuels can be synthesized, including:
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Ethylene Oxide (C₂H₄O): Produced by the oxidation of ethylene, it serves as an intermediate for antifreeze and other industrial chemicals.
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Alcohols: Ethylene can be hydrated to produce ethanol, which is a valuable fuel and solvent: