Table of Contents
Ethyne
The chemical compound ethyne is composed of two carbon atoms bonded together with a triple bond, and three hydrogen atoms. The carbon atoms are sp3 hybridized, with each of the two carbon atoms having two of the sp3 orbitals in common. This results in a trigonal planar molecular geometry. The three hydrogen atoms are each bonded to one of the carbon atoms, and are in a sigma bond.
What is Ethyne or Acetylene?
Ethyne is a hydrocarbon that has the chemical formula C2H2. It is a colorless gas with a faint ethereal odor. It is the simplest alkene. Acetylene is the common name for ethyne.
Acetylene Structural Formula
The acetylene structural formula is C2H2. This molecule consists of two carbon atoms bonded to each other with a double bond, and two hydrogen atoms bonded to each of the carbon atoms.
Preparation of Ethyne
The preparation of ethyne is a two-step process. In the first step, ethanol is converted to ethylene. In the second step, ethylene is converted to ethyne.
In the first step, ethanol is converted to ethylene by the addition of hydrogen gas.
CH 3 CH 2 OH + H 2 → CH 2 =CH 2 + H 2 O
In the second step, ethylene is converted to ethyne by the addition of carbon monoxide.
CH 2 =CH 2 + CO → CH 3 CH=CH 2
Properties of Acetylene/Ethyne
- Acetylene and ethyne are both hydrocarbons that contain only carbon and hydrogen atoms. Acetylene has two carbon atoms, while ethyne has only one. They are both gases at room temperature and pressure.
- Both acetylene and ethyne are highly flammable. They will ignite and burn in air with a very hot flame. Acetylene is slightly more flammable than ethyne.
- Both acetylene and ethyne are toxic. They can cause severe irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat. They can also cause damage to the lungs.
