What is propane, and what is its molecular formula?

Propane is a three-carbon chain alkane with the molecular formula C3H8. It is a colorless, odorless gas at standard temperature and pressure, but it can be liquefied under pressure for easier transportation and storage.

How is propane produced, and where is it commonly found?

Propane is produced as a by-product of natural gas processing and petroleum refining. It is often a constituent of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), which is widely used as a fuel.

Who discovered propane, and when did it become commercially available in the US?

Propane was first synthesized in 1857 by French chemist Marcellin Berthelot. It became commercially available in the United States by 1911.

What are the primary uses of propane?

Propane is primarily used as a fuel for domestic and industrial applications, including heating, cooking, and powering vehicles. It is also used as a refrigerant and in various industrial processes.

Why is propane a popular choice for portable stoves and barbecues, especially in cold weather?

Propane is popular for portable stoves and barbecues because its low boiling point of -42°C allows it to vaporize easily from pressurized liquid containers. This vaporization capability persists even in cold weather, making it more reliable outdoors in cold climates compared to alternatives like butane, which have higher boiling points.

What is propane's role as a refrigerant, and what are its advantages and disadvantages?

Propane, designated as R-290, is used as a refrigerant. Its advantages include high efficiency, greater temperature output, and less atmospheric damage compared to common refrigerants like R410A/R32. However, its primary disadvantage is its high flammability.

How was propane discovered and synthesized by Marcellin Berthelot?

Marcellin Berthelot discovered propane in 1857 by heating propylene dibromide with potassium iodide and water. This process involved the hydrogenation of propylene dibromide.

Who identified propane in crude oil and highlighted its significance in the early 20th century?

Edmund Ronalds found propane dissolved in Pennsylvanian crude oil in 1864. Later, in 1910, Walter O. Snelling of the U.S. Bureau of Mines identified it as a volatile component in gasoline, marking the beginning of the propane industry in the United States.

What was the significance of Walter O. Snelling's work regarding propane?

Walter O. Snelling's work in 1910 highlighted propane as a volatile component in gasoline. He later developed methods to liquefy LP gases, leading to the establishment of the American Gasol Co. and the patenting of his processing methods, which were crucial for the commercialization of propane.

How did the production and use of propane grow in the United States during the 1920s and 1930s?

Propane production and use saw significant growth from the 1920s onwards. Recorded production reached 223,000 US gallons in 1922, increasing to 1 million gallons by 1927 and 56 million gallons by 1935. Key developments included railroad tank car transport, gas odorization, and local filling plants.

What is the origin of the name 'propane'?

The name 'propane' originates from the Greek words 'protos' (first) and 'pion' (fat), referring to its precursor, propionic acid. The 'prop-' root signifies a three-carbon chain.

What are the physical properties of propane at standard conditions?

At standard conditions, propane is a colorless, odorless gas. It liquefies below its boiling point of -42°C and solidifies below its melting point of -187.7°C. An odorant, typically ethyl mercaptan, is added to give it a detectable 'rotten egg' smell for safety.

Describe the combustion of propane.

Propane undergoes combustion reactions similar to other alkanes. In the presence of sufficient oxygen, it burns completely to form carbon dioxide and water, releasing heat. With insufficient oxygen, incomplete combustion occurs, producing carbon monoxide, soot (carbon), or both.

What is the energy content of propane upon complete combustion?

The complete combustion of propane releases approximately 50 megajoules per kilogram (MJ/kg) of heat. This is known as the higher heating value (HHV) when water returns to its liquid state.

How does propane's combustion compare to that of coal or gasoline in terms of emissions?

Propane combustion is significantly cleaner than that of coal or unleaded gasoline. Its per-BTU production of carbon dioxide (CO2) is comparable to natural gas, and it burns hotter with a visible flame due to its C-C bonds.

What is the density of propane gas and liquid propane at typical temperatures?

Propane gas has a density of approximately 1.808 kg/m³ at 25°C, making it about 1.5 times denser than air. Liquid propane has a density of about 0.493 g/cm³ at 25°C, which is equivalent to 4.11 pounds per US liquid gallon.

What safety consideration is crucial when filling propane tanks due to its density and expansion properties?

Propane expands significantly with temperature changes (1.5% per 10°F). It is crucial to leave adequate headspace in a tank when filling it, as overfilling could lead to tank rupture when the temperature rises.

What is the primary advantage of propane for use in portable stoves that eliminates the need for complex vaporization equipment?

Propane's low boiling point (-42°C) allows it to vaporize immediately upon release from its pressurized container. This means a simple metering nozzle is sufficient, eliminating the need for a carburetor or other vaporizing devices required by fuels with higher boiling points.

What are the environmental benefits of using propane as a refrigerant compared to traditional refrigerants?

As a refrigerant (R-290), propane has a negligible ozone depletion potential (ODP) and a very low global warming potential (GWP). This makes it an environmentally friendly alternative to chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs).

Why is propane generally considered unsuitable for use on boats?

Propane is denser than air, meaning that if a leak occurs, the vapor can accumulate in low-lying areas, such as the bilge of a boat. This accumulation poses a significant risk of explosion and fire, making it generally unsuitable for marine applications.

What is a BLEVE, and how does it relate to propane?

A BLEVE, or Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion, is a catastrophic failure of a vessel containing a pressurized liquid. The Kingman Explosion in 1973, involving a propane tank car, is a notable example of a BLEVE incident that resulted in fatalities and injuries.

How does propane's storage method as LPG compare to compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG)?

Propane is stored as a liquid (LPG) under moderate pressure, requiring relatively small storage space. CNG requires very high pressure due to its gaseous state at normal temperatures, posing risks if the cylinder fails. LNG is stored as a cryogenic liquid at low pressure, which is more efficient than CNG but requires specialized insulated containers.

What are the key advantages of using propane as a motor fuel (autogas)?

Propane offers several advantages as a motor fuel, including its liquid state at moderate pressure allowing fast refills, affordable cylinder construction, lower handling and combustion emissions, reduced engine wear due to fewer carbon deposits, and a higher octane rating (110).

How is propane used to enhance the performance and efficiency of diesel trucks?

Propane is used as a boost fuel in heavy-duty highway trucks, injected through the turbocharger to mix with diesel fuel. Its high hydrogen content helps diesel burn more completely, leading to increased torque, horsepower, better fuel economy (20-33% improvement), and cleaner exhaust.

What are some of the 'other uses' for propane mentioned in the article?

Beyond its primary fuel uses, propane is utilized in blowtorches for soldering, in oxy-fuel welding and cutting, as a feedstock for petrochemicals via steam cracking, as the primary fuel for hot-air balloons, in semiconductor manufacturing, for special effects in entertainment, as a propellant in aerosols, and in the extraction of fats and oils.

What is the difference between North American HD-5 propane and LPG used in other regions?

The North American HD-5 standard for automotive propane specifies a maximum of 5% butane and 5% propylene. LPG used as fuel in Europe, Asia, and Australia often contains a much higher percentage of butane, with proportions varying by country based on climate and price.

What are the primary hazards associated with propane leaks?

Propane is denser than air, so leaks can cause the gas to accumulate in low-lying areas, creating a risk of explosion and fire if an ignition source is present. It is also a simple asphyxiant, and when abused as an inhalant, it can lead to serious health consequences like hypoxia and cardiac arrest.

What is the typical odorant added to propane, and why?

Ethyl mercaptan is commonly added to propane as an odorant. This is a safety measure to make leaks detectable by smell, as pure propane is odorless. The added chemical provides a characteristic 'rotten egg' smell.

How does propane's density compared to air affect its safety considerations?

Propane is denser than air. This means that in the event of a leak, propane vapor tends to sink and can accumulate in low-lying areas, such as basements or ditches. This accumulation increases the risk of ignition and explosion if an ignition source is present.

What is the significance of the HD-5 specification for propane?

The HD-5 specification, particularly in North America, sets standards for propane purity, especially for automotive use. It limits the concentration of contaminants like butane and propylene to ensure proper engine performance and safety.

How does propane's storage as a liquid compare to the storage of natural gas?

Propane is easily stored as a liquid (LPG) under moderate pressure, requiring less space. Natural gas, however, cannot be liquefied by compression at normal temperatures and requires very high pressure (CNG) or cryogenic temperatures (LNG) for storage, making propane generally more convenient for mobile applications.

What are the NIOSH recommended exposure limits for propane?

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommends a Time-Weighted Average (TWA) exposure limit of 1,000 parts per million (ppm) or 1,800 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m³) for propane. The Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH) level is 2,100 ppm.

What does the NFPA 704 diamond indicate for propane?

The NFPA 704 diamond for propane shows a '4' in the red (flammability) section, indicating it is extremely flammable and will rapidly vaporize or disperse in air. It shows a '2' in the blue (health) section, suggesting intense or continued exposure could cause temporary incapacitation or residual injury, and a '0' in the yellow (instability) section, meaning it is normally stable.

What is the flash point of propane?

The flash point of propane is -104°C (-155°F), indicating the minimum temperature at which it can vaporize to form an ignitable mixture in air.

What is the autoignition temperature of propane?

Propane will ignite spontaneously without an external ignition source at its autoignition temperature, which is 470°C (878°F).

What are the explosive limits of propane in air?

Propane forms explosive mixtures with air within a concentration range of 2.37% to 9.5% by volume.

What is the GHS hazard statement for propane?

According to the Globally Harmonized System (GHS), the hazard statement for propane is H220: Extremely flammable gas.

What is the signal word associated with propane under the GHS system?

The signal word for propane under the GHS system is 'Danger', indicating its hazardous nature.

What precautionary statement is typically provided for propane under GHS?

A common precautionary statement for propane is P210: Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames, and other ignition sources. No smoking.

How does propane's energy density compare to gasoline and coal?

Propane has a lower volumetric energy density than gasoline or coal but a higher gravimetric energy density. This means that while a given volume of propane stores less energy than the same volume of gasoline or coal, a given mass of propane stores more energy.

What is the typical odorant added to propane, and what smell does it produce?

Ethyl mercaptan is commonly added to propane as an odorant. It imparts a 'rotten egg' smell, which serves as a crucial safety warning in case of leaks, as pure propane is odorless.

What is the chemical formula for propane, and what does it signify?

The chemical formula for propane is C3H8. This indicates that each molecule of propane consists of three carbon atoms bonded together and eight hydrogen atoms attached to the carbon chain.

What is the molar mass of propane?

The molar mass of propane (C3H8) is approximately 44.097 grams per mole (g/mol).

What are the melting and boiling points of propane?

Propane melts at -187.7°C (-305.8°F) and boils at -42.25 to -42.04°C (-44.05 to -43.67°F) at standard pressure.

What is the critical point of propane?

The critical point of propane, the temperature and pressure above which it cannot exist as a liquid, is 370 K (97°C or 206°F) and 4.23 MPa (41.7 atm).

How soluble is propane in water?

Propane has limited solubility in water, with approximately 47 milligrams per liter (mg/L) dissolving at 0°C.

What is the vapor pressure of propane at a common temperature?

At 21.1°C (70°F), the vapor pressure of propane is 853.16 kilopascals (kPa).

What are the related compounds of propane mentioned in the text?

Related alkanes mentioned include ethane, butane, and isobutane. Other related compounds include propene, allene, and cyclopropane.

What is the purpose of the 'Propane (data page)' mentioned in the infobox?

The 'Propane (data page)' likely serves as a supplementary resource containing more detailed chemical and physical data about propane, complementing the information presented in the main article's infobox.

What does the disclaimer 'Except where otherwise noted, data are given for materials in their standard state' mean in the context of propane's properties?

This disclaimer indicates that the listed properties (like molar mass, melting point, etc.) are provided under standard conditions, typically defined as 25°C (77°F) and 100 kPa pressure, unless specified otherwise. This ensures consistency when comparing data.

What is the significance of the 'verify' and 'what is?' links next to the standard state disclaimer?

These links are part of Wikipedia's quality control process. 'Verify' allows users to check the accuracy of the data against its sources, while 'what is?' likely links to an explanation of the standard state convention used in scientific data presentation.

Propane Wiki: Propane: The Energetic Molecule

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Overview

Chemical Identity

Propane is a three-carbon chain alkane with the molecular formula C₃H₈. At standard temperature and pressure, it exists as a colorless, odorless gas. It is a by-product derived from the processing of natural gas and petroleum refining, commonly found as a constituent in liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).

Historical Context

First synthesized in 1857 by French chemist Marcellin Berthelot, propane became commercially available in the United States by 1911. Its development marked a significant step in harnessing volatile hydrocarbon components for practical applications.

Energy Characteristics

Propane possesses a higher gravimetric energy density than gasoline or coal, though its volumetric energy density is lower. Crucially, it burns more cleanly than many fossil fuels, making it an attractive energy source for various applications.

Historical Development

Early Discoveries

Propane's journey began with its synthesis by Marcellin Berthelot in 1857. Later, Edmund Ronalds identified it dissolved in Pennsylvania crude oil in 1864. Walter O. Snelling, working with the U.S. Bureau of Mines, highlighted its role as a volatile component in gasoline in 1910, effectively marking the "birth of the propane industry" in the United States.

Commercialization and Innovation

Snelling, alongside collaborators, developed methods to liquefy these volatile gases through compression and refining. This led to the establishment of American Gasol Co., the first commercial marketer of propane. Snelling's patent for processing LP gases was issued in 1913, paving the way for its widespread adoption.

Industrial Growth and Adoption

The 1920s and 1930s saw significant growth, with the introduction of railroad transport, gas odorization, and local filling plants. By 1945, annual LP gas sales reached one billion gallons, and by 1950, propane was powering thousands of buses in Chicago, demonstrating its increasing importance in transportation and domestic energy.

Key Properties

Physical Characteristics

Propane is a colorless gas at ambient temperature and pressure, typically odorless unless an odorant like ethyl mercaptan is added for safety. Its low boiling point of -42.25 °C (-44.05 °F) allows it to be easily liquefied under moderate pressure, facilitating storage and transport.

Combustion Behavior

Propane burns cleanly, producing primarily carbon dioxide and water vapor when oxygen is sufficient. Its enthalpy of combustion is approximately 50.33 MJ/kg. Incomplete combustion can yield carbon monoxide and soot. The energy content and cleaner burn profile contribute to its popularity as a fuel.

Density and Pressure

Propane gas is denser than air, a property critical for safety considerations regarding leaks. Liquid propane has a density of approximately 0.493 g/cm³ at 25 °C. Its vapor pressure requires storage in pressurized containers, with careful attention to headspace to prevent over-pressurization due to thermal expansion.

Hazard Classification

Under the Globally Harmonized System (GHS), propane is classified as extremely flammable (H220), requiring the signal word "Danger." The NFPA 704 diamond indicates a flammability rating of 4, health rating of 2, and instability rating of 0, highlighting its significant fire hazard.

Diverse Applications

Domestic and Portable Fuel

Propane is widely used for residential heating, cooking, and water heating, especially in areas without natural gas pipelines. Its portability makes it ideal for barbecues, camping stoves, and recreational vehicles, offering a reliable energy source independent of fixed infrastructure.

Transportation Fuel (Autogas)

Known globally as autogas, propane is the third most popular vehicle fuel worldwide. Its advantages include lower emissions, reduced engine wear, a high octane rating (110), and typically lower costs compared to gasoline. It powers buses, forklifts, and passenger vehicles, with developing infrastructure supporting its use.

Refrigeration and Heat Pumps

As a refrigerant (R-290), propane offers excellent efficiency and a negligible environmental impact (low GWP and ODP), making it a sustainable alternative to traditional refrigerants like HFCs. It is employed in stationary refrigeration systems and is being considered for heat pump applications.

Industrial and Specialized Uses

Propane serves as a feedstock for petrochemical production via steam cracking. It fuels blowtorches for soldering, is used in oxy-fuel welding and cutting, powers hot-air balloons, and is utilized in semiconductor manufacturing for silicon carbide deposition. It's also employed in theme parks for special effects and as a propellant in aerosol cans.

Purity and Standards

North American Standards

In North America, automotive-grade propane typically adheres to the HD-5 standard, specifying a maximum of 5% butane and a similar limit for propylene. This standard, defined by ASTM D-1835, ensures optimal performance and safety for internal combustion engines.

Global Variations

Propane specifications can vary significantly by region. European and Asian markets often utilize LPG with higher butane content, adjusting proportions based on climate and availability. These variations impact performance characteristics and suitability for specific applications.

Safety Considerations

Asphyxiation and Frostbite

Propane is a simple asphyxiant, displacing oxygen. Being denser than air, leaks can accumulate in low-lying areas, posing an explosion risk. Rapid evaporation upon release can cause severe frostbite due to extreme cold.

Fire and Explosion Risks

The high flammability of propane necessitates careful handling. Leaks in enclosed spaces, combined with an ignition source, can lead to catastrophic fires or explosions. The phenomenon of BLEVE (Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion) represents a severe hazard associated with pressurized propane containers exposed to heat.

Inhalant Abuse Dangers

Misuse of propane as an inhalant can lead to serious health consequences, including hypoxia, pneumonia, cardiac failure, and cardiac arrest. Its low toxicity profile does not mitigate the severe risks associated with intentional inhalation.

Production Methods

Natural Gas Processing

Propane is primarily obtained as a by-product during the processing of raw natural gas. This involves separating lighter hydrocarbons, including propane, ethane, and butane, to meet pipeline quality standards and prevent condensation.

Petroleum Refining

Oil refineries also produce propane as a by-product of cracking heavier petroleum fractions into lighter products like gasoline and heating oil. This dual source contributes to its availability.

Storage and Supply

Due to its by-product nature, propane supply is often tied to the demand for primary products like gasoline and natural gas. In North America, significant quantities are stored in underground salt caverns, ensuring a buffer against demand fluctuations.

Presence Beyond Earth

Detection on Titan

Propane has been detected in the atmosphere of Saturn's moon, Titan. Spectroscopic observations from space missions, including Voyager 1 and the Cassini probe, confirmed its presence, contributing to our understanding of extraterrestrial atmospheric chemistry.

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References

Climate Change 2021 â The Physical Science Basis

A full list of references for this article are available at the Propane Wikipedia page

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This content was generated by an Artificial Intelligence model and is intended for educational and informational purposes only. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy based on the provided source material, it may not be exhaustive or entirely up-to-date.

This is not professional advice. The information presented here is not a substitute for professional consultation regarding chemical safety, engineering, or energy systems. Always refer to official safety data sheets, technical specifications, and consult with qualified professionals for any application involving propane or other hazardous materials.

The creators of this page are not liable for any errors, omissions, or actions taken based on the information provided herein. Handling flammable gases like propane requires strict adherence to safety protocols.

Propane: The Energetic Molecule

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Overview ℹ️

⚛️ Chemical Identity

🕰️ Historical Context

🔥 Energy Characteristics

Historical Development 📜

🔬 Early Discoveries

🏭 Commercialization and Innovation

📈 Industrial Growth and Adoption

Key Properties 🌡️

💨 Physical Characteristics

🔥 Combustion Behavior

📏 Density and Pressure

⚠️ Hazard Classification

Diverse Applications ⛽

🏠 Domestic and Portable Fuel

🚗 Transportation Fuel (Autogas)

❄️ Refrigeration and Heat Pumps

⚙️ Industrial and Specialized Uses

Purity and Standards ✔️

📜 North American Standards

🌍 Global Variations

Safety Considerations ⚠️

💨 Asphyxiation and Frostbite

⚡ Fire and Explosion Risks

🤕 Inhalant Abuse Dangers

Production Methods 🏭

⛽ Natural Gas Processing

🛢️ Petroleum Refining

📦 Storage and Supply

Presence Beyond Earth 🪐

🔭 Detection on Titan

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

📜 References

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

Chemical Identity

Historical Context

Energy Characteristics

Historical Development

Early Discoveries

Commercialization and Innovation

Industrial Growth and Adoption

Key Properties

Physical Characteristics

Combustion Behavior

Density and Pressure

Hazard Classification

Diverse Applications

Domestic and Portable Fuel

Transportation Fuel (Autogas)

Refrigeration and Heat Pumps

Industrial and Specialized Uses

Purity and Standards

North American Standards

Global Variations

Safety Considerations

Asphyxiation and Frostbite

Fire and Explosion Risks

Inhalant Abuse Dangers

Production Methods

Natural Gas Processing

Petroleum Refining

Storage and Supply

Presence Beyond Earth

Detection on Titan

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice