Dodecane
Chemical compound
Dodecane is a saturated hydrocarbon with the chemical formula C12H26. It is a member of the alkane series and is composed of a chain of twelve carbon atoms, each bonded to hydrogen atoms. Dodecane is a colorless, odorless liquid at room temperature and is primarily used as a solvent and in the production of jet fuel and diesel.
Structure and Properties[edit | edit source]
Dodecane is a straight-chain alkane, also known as a n-alkane, which means it has a linear structure without any branches. The molecular structure of dodecane can be represented as CH3(CH2)10CH3. This structure contributes to its non-polarity and hydrophobic nature.
Dodecane has a boiling point of approximately 216 °C (421 °F) and a melting point of about -9.6 °C (14.7 °F). Its density is around 0.749 g/cm3 at 20 °C. Due to its long carbon chain, dodecane has a relatively high boiling point compared to shorter alkanes.
Production[edit | edit source]
Dodecane is typically obtained from the distillation of petroleum. It can also be synthesized through the Fischer-Tropsch process, which involves the catalytic conversion of carbon monoxide and hydrogen into hydrocarbons.
Applications[edit | edit source]
Dodecane is used in various industrial applications due to its chemical stability and low reactivity. It serves as a solvent in chromatography and is used in the calibration of thermometers. In the aerospace industry, dodecane is a component of jet fuel and rocket propellant.
Safety and Environmental Impact[edit | edit source]
Dodecane is considered to have low toxicity, but it can cause irritation if it comes into contact with the skin or eyes. It is not classified as a hazardous substance, but it should be handled with care to prevent environmental contamination. Dodecane is not readily biodegradable, and its release into the environment should be minimized.
Related Compounds[edit | edit source]
Dodecane is part of a homologous series of alkanes, which includes other compounds such as decane (C10H22) and tetradecane (C14H30). These compounds share similar chemical properties but differ in the length of their carbon chains.
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