Isobutane

Isobutane

Isobutane, also known as methylpropane, is a hydrocarbon of the alkane series. It is a gas at room temperature and is used in a variety of applications, from refrigeration to the production of synthetic rubber.

Chemical Properties

Isobutane is a branched-chain alkane with four carbon atoms. Its chemical formula is C₄H₁₀. It is an isomer of butane, meaning it has the same number of atoms, but they are arranged differently. This gives isobutane different physical and chemical properties from butane.

Uses

Isobutane is used in a variety of applications. It is commonly used as a refrigerant due to its low boiling point. It is also used as a propellant in aerosol cans. In the petrochemical industry, isobutane is used in the production of isobutylene, which is a key ingredient in the production of synthetic rubber and other plastic materials.

Safety

Like other alkanes, isobutane is highly flammable. It can form explosive mixtures with air and should be handled with care. It is also a potent greenhouse gas, with a global warming potential much higher than that of carbon dioxide.

See Also

• Butane
• Alkane
• Hydrocarbon
• Refrigerant
• Synthetic rubber

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