Decane is a chemical compound that falls under the category of alkanes. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /dɛkeɪn/. The first sound is "d", followed by a short "e" sound, then "k" and "eɪ" together, and ending with "n". The spelling "decane" follows the English language's convention of using the prefix "dec-" to denote ten in numbering systems. Decane is composed of ten carbon atoms, and thus the prefix "dec-" accurately represents the chemical compound's molecular structure.
Decane is a hydrocarbon compound that belongs to the class of alkanes. It is a clear and colorless liquid with a molecular formula of C10H22. It is primarily composed of ten carbon atoms bonded with twenty-two hydrogen atoms. Decane is a nonpolar and unreactive compound, characterized by its low melting and boiling points, which are approximately -30 °C and 174 °C, respectively.
The chemical structure of decane consists of a straight chain of carbon atoms, with each carbon atom bonded to two hydrogen atoms except for the end carbons, which are bonded to three hydrogen atoms. This linear arrangement imparts a linear shape to the molecule. Due to its linear structure and high molecular weight, decane exhibits poor volatility and is considered a hydrophobic substance.
Decane finds various applications in different industries. It serves as a component in the production of gasoline, particularly in aviation fuels, due to its ability to burn efficiently. Additionally, it is used as a solvent in organic synthesis, where it dissolves or serves as a diluent for various chemical reactions. Decane also functions as a lubricant, helping to reduce friction and wear in mechanical systems. In laboratories, it is employed as a standard reference compound for analyzing and calibrating gas chromatography and mass spectrometry instruments.
In summary, decane is a hydrocarbon compound consisting of ten carbon atoms and twenty-two hydrogen atoms. It is a nonpolar and unreactive liquid with a linear structure. Decane finds applications in fuel production, as a solvent in organic synthesis, as a lubricant, and as a standard reference compound in analytical instruments.
A paraffin, C10H22, in coal-tar.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "decane" is derived from the combination of two linguistic elements: "deca" and "-ane".
1. "Deca": The prefix "deca-" is derived from the Greek word "deka", meaning "ten". It is commonly used as a numerical prefix to indicate the number ten.
2. "-ane": The suffix "-ane" is used in organic chemistry to indicate that a compound belongs to the family of alkanes, which are hydrocarbons with single covalent bonds between carbon atoms. The suffix "-ane" is derived from the French "-ane", which in turn originated from the Latin "-anus".
By combining "deca-" and "-ane", the term "decane" is formed, representing an alkane molecule consisting of ten carbon atoms.