C4H10 is the molecular formula for butane, also known as n-butane or regular butane.
Understanding Butane (C4H10)
Butane is a simple alkane, a type of hydrocarbon, meaning it consists only of carbon (C) and hydrogen (H) atoms. The formula C4H10 indicates that each molecule of butane contains four carbon atoms and ten hydrogen atoms.
Key Characteristics
- Molecular Formula: C4H10
- Other Names: n-butane, regular butane
- Type of Compound: Alkane, Hydrocarbon
Common Uses of Butane
Butane has several practical applications, thanks to its properties.
| Use Category | Application Examples |
|---|---|
| Fuel | Lighter fuel, cigarette lighters |
| Energy Production | Production of gasoline |
| Propellant | Aerosol cans |
Molecular Structure of Butane
Butane's chemical structure consists of a linear chain of four carbon atoms, each bonded to either two or three hydrogen atoms.
- Each carbon atom forms four bonds.
- The carbon atoms are bonded to each other in a chain by single bonds.
- Hydrogen atoms are bonded to the carbon atoms by single bonds.
This structure makes it a relatively simple and stable molecule, accounting for its wide range of uses.
