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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 key precursor in the production of various chemicals due to its simplicity and reactivity. It serves as a building block for polymers, such as polyethylene, which is one of the most widely used plastics. Ethylene undergoes polymerization to form polyethylene:
Moreover, ethylene can participate in numerous chemical reactions, making it indispensable in the synthesis of other compounds.
Step 2
Chemical Equations
Answer
In addition to polymerization, ethylene is involved in other important reactions:
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Hydration Reaction: Ethylene reacts with water in the presence of an acid to form ethanol:
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Halogenation: Ethylene can react with halogens, such as chlorine, to produce haloalkanes:
These reactions highlight ethylene's versatility in producing various chemicals.
Step 3
New Materials and Fuels from Ethylene
Answer
Ethylene can also be transformed into various fuels and materials. For instance, it is used in the production of ethylene glycol, which serves as an antifreeze and in the manufacture of polyester:
Additionally, ethylene can be converted into higher hydrocarbons for fuels through processes such as oligomerization and hydrocracking, demonstrating its significance in energy production.