| Formula / Notation | C4H10 |
|---|---|
| CAS Number | 106-97-8 |
| Molecular Weight | 58.12 |
| Melting Point | -217.1 °F (NTP, 1992) |
| Boiling Point | 31.1 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992) |
| Density | 0.6 at 32 °F (USCG, 1999) - Less dense than water; will float |
| Solubility | 61 mg/L at 68 °F (NTP, 1992) |
| Appearance | Butane is a colorless gas with a faint petroleum-like odor. For transportation it may be stenched. It is shipped as a liquefied gas under its vapor pressure. Contact with the liquid can cause frost... |
| Also Known As | n-Butane; 106-97-8; Diethyl; Methylethylmethane; Butanen; Butani; Butyl hydride; HC 600; A 21 (lowing agent); R 600 |
| Category | Organic Compounds |
What is Butane?
Butane is a straight chain alkane composed of 4 carbon atoms. It has a role as a food propellant and a refrigerant. It is a gas molecular entity and an alkane.
Formula & Notation
IUPAC Name: butane
Other Names / Synonyms: n-Butane; 106-97-8; Diethyl; Methylethylmethane; Butanen; Butani; Butyl hydride; HC 600; A 21 (lowing agent); R 600
Properties & Characteristics
Physical Data
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Melting Point | -217.1 °F (NTP, 1992) |
| Boiling Point | 31.1 °F at 760 mmHg (NTP, 1992) |
| Density | 0.6 at 32 °F (USCG, 1999) - Less dense than water; will float |
| Molecular Weight | 58.12 |
| Solubility | 61 mg/L at 68 °F (NTP, 1992) |
| Appearance | Butane is a colorless gas with a faint petroleum-like odor. For transportation it may be stenched. It is shipped as a liquefied gas under its vapor pressure. Contact with the liquid can cause frost... |
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Butane is a straight chain alkane composed of 4 carbon atoms. It has a role as a food propellant and a refrigerant. It is a gas molecular entity and an alkane.
Used as an industrial feedstock, solvent, pharmaceutical intermediate, flavoring agent, or chemical building block.
Flammable or irritant. Many organic compounds are flammable liquids or vapours. Keep away from ignition sources. Consult SDS for specific hazard data.
The formula or notation for Butane is: C4H10