Pronunciation: [bjˈuːte͡ɪnz] (IPA) 
The word "butanes" is spelled as /ˈbjuːteɪnz/ in IPA phonetic transcription. It refers to a family of hydrocarbons that have four carbon atoms and ten hydrogen atoms in their molecular structure. The spelling of "butanes" follows the standard English rule of adding the suffix "-es" to pluralize nouns ending in consonants. In this case, "butane" ends in a consonant "e", so "s" is added directly to the end to form its plural form.
Butanes are a group of hydrocarbon compounds classified as alkanes, which are saturated hydrocarbons consisting entirely of single carbon-carbon bonds. Specifically, butanes are part of the butane series, along with propane and methane, characterized by their four carbon atoms and lack of branching.
In their pure, unadulterated state, butanes are gases at room temperature and atmospheric pressure. They are colorless and odorless, serving as the primary component in liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). Due to their low boiling points, butanes can be easily condensed and stored as a liquid, enabling their use as fuel for various applications.
Butanes are widely employed in different industries and sectors. They serve as a common household cooking fuel in portable butane gas stoves, as well as in camping and outdoor activities. Additionally, they act as propellants in aerosol products, such as deodorants, hairsprays, and insecticides. As butanes burn efficiently and produce a high amount of heat when combusted, they are also used as fuel for torches, lighters, and welding equipment.
Furthermore, butanes are utilized as feedstocks in the production of a range of chemicals, including butadiene, which is a key ingredient in synthetic rubber production. Other derivatives such as butene and butylene are used in the manufacture of plastics, resins, synthetic fibers, and solvents.
In summary, butanes are a group of hydrocarbon compounds with four carbon atoms, primarily used as a fuel and propellant in various applications, as well as feedstocks for chemical production.
The word "butanes" is derived from the chemical compound named "butane". The term "butane" originated from the word "butyl" combined with the suffix "-ane". "Butyl" is derived from the combining form "but-" derived from "butyric acid", which is itself derived from "butter", indicating its presence in butter and other dairy products. The suffix "-ane" is added to indicate that it is an alkane hydrocarbon with single bonds between carbon atoms.
