Pronunciation: [pˈɛnte͡ɪn] (IPA) 
The word "Pentane" is spelled with five letters and two syllables. Its IPA phonetic transcription is /ˈpɛntˌeɪn/. The first syllable is pronounced as "pent" with a short "e" sound and a stressed "e" sound. The second syllable is pronounced as "ane" with a long "a" sound and an unstressed "e" sound. The word refers to a colorless, flammable hydrocarbon compound with a molecular formula of C5H12 that is used as a solvent and as a fuel.
Pentane is a colorless, volatile, and highly flammable hydrocarbon compound that belongs to the alkane family. It is composed of five carbon atoms connected by single bonds and is known by its chemical formula C5H12.
Pentane is primarily obtained from crude oil and natural gas, where it is found in small quantities. It is the least dense liquid hydrocarbon among the pentanes and has a boiling point of approximately 36 to 36.1 degrees Celsius (97 to 97.2 degrees Fahrenheit). Due to its highly flammable nature, pentane is commonly used as a fuel or as a component in gasoline blends.
In addition, pentane finds numerous applications in various fields. It is often used as a solvent in laboratories for its ability to dissolve a wide range of organic compounds. Its low boiling point makes it an ideal choice for temperature-controlled baths used in scientific experiments. Pentane is also utilized as a blowing agent in the production of foam materials, such as expanded polystyrene, to create air pockets in the structure of the material.
Furthermore, pentane serves as a raw material in the synthesis of other chemicals and compounds. It is involved in the manufacturing of plastics, synthetic rubber, resins, and pharmaceuticals. Additionally, pentane acts as an aerosol propellant and can be found in certain products such as spray paints, aerosol adhesives, and insecticides.
However, pentane should be handled with caution due to its flammability and potential health hazards. It poses a risk of fire and explosion if exposed to heat, sparks, or an open flame. Prolonged exposure to pentane vapor may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or respiratory irritation.
Amyl hydride, C5H12, a liquid hydrocarbon possessing anesthetic properties.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "pentane" derives from the combination of two components: "penta-" and "-ane".
1. "Penta-" comes from the Greek word "pente" (πέντε), meaning "five". This prefix is commonly used in chemistry to indicate a compound with five atoms of a certain element or five of a particular group.
2. "-ane" is a suffix used in organic chemistry to denote hydrocarbons that belong to the alkane family, which consists of compounds composed solely of carbon and hydrogen atoms. Alkanes have single covalent bonds between carbon atoms, resulting in a saturated structure.
Combining these elements, "pentane" is formed to refer to an alkane compound consisting of five carbon atoms.
