Enter the molecular formula for butane, C4H10 Express your answer as a chemical formula.
The correct answer and explanation is :
The molecular formula for butane is C₄H₁₀.
Explanation:
Butane is an organic compound and is part of the alkane family, which are hydrocarbons consisting only of carbon (C) and hydrogen (H) atoms, with single bonds between carbon atoms. The formula C₄H₁₀ indicates that butane has four carbon (C) atoms and ten hydrogen (H) atoms.
Alkanes follow the general molecular formula CₙH₂ₙ₊₂, where “n” is the number of carbon atoms. For butane, “n” equals 4, which satisfies the formula C₄H₁₀.
Butane exists in two structural forms:
- n-butane (normal butane) – This is a straight-chain alkane where the carbon atoms are connected in a continuous chain.
- iso-butane (isobutane) – This is a branched-chain alkane where the carbon chain branches out at one point, forming a more compact structure.
Despite their structural differences, both forms of butane share the same molecular formula C₄H₁₀. The difference between the two isomers lies in the arrangement of the atoms, which affects their physical and chemical properties. Butane is commonly used as a fuel, in lighters, and in propane-butane gas mixtures for heating and cooking.
Structure:
- In n-butane, the carbon atoms are linked in a continuous chain.
- In iso-butane, the structure is branched, with three carbon atoms forming a chain and the fourth carbon atom branching off.
Butane is a colorless, odorless gas at room temperature and pressure and is highly flammable.
Here is the image illustrating the molecular structures of n-butane and iso-butane, both having the molecular formula C₄H₁₀. The image shows the difference in their structure: n-butane is a straight-chain alkane, while iso-butane is branched. Let me know if you’d like more details!