Cyclohexane

Cyclohexane is a cycloalkane compound with the formula C6H12. It is a colorless, flammable liquid with a distinctive detergent-like odor, reminiscent of cleaning products (in which it is sometimes used). Cyclohexane is not very soluble in water and is less dense than water. It is used in the production of adipic acid and caprolactam, which are precursors to nylon.

Structure and properties

Cyclohexane is a six-membered ring molecule with a chair conformation, considered the most stable structure for cyclohexane. Each carbon atom in the cyclohexane ring is bonded to two hydrogen atoms and two other carbon atoms. The C-C-C bond angles are near 109.5 degrees, which is the ideal bond angle for sp3 hybridized carbon atoms. This conformation allows for the most stable structure of cyclohexane, minimizing steric strain and torsional strain.

Production

Cyclohexane is produced by catalytic hydrogenation of benzene. The process involves the reaction of benzene with hydrogen, in the presence of a metal catalyst, usually platinum or palladium. This reaction is highly exothermic, releasing about 216 kJ/mol.

Uses

Cyclohexane is primarily used in the industrial production of adipic acid and caprolactam, which are precursors to nylon. It is also used as a solvent in some industrial applications, and as a laboratory reagent.

Safety

Cyclohexane is a highly flammable compound. It has a flash point of -20 degrees Celsius and a boiling point of 80.74 degrees Celsius. It can form explosive mixtures with air. Ingestion or inhalation of cyclohexane can cause central nervous system depression, leading to dizziness, nausea, and unconsciousness.

See also

• Cycloalkane
• Benzene
• Adipic acid
• Caprolactam