Acetylene Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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acetylene
[əˈsɛtɪˌliːn ]
Definition
chemical compound
Acetylene is a colorless gas that is widely used as a fuel and a chemical building block. It is the simplest alkyne and is known for its high flame temperature when burned with oxygen. Acetylene is also used in welding and cutting metals due to its ability to produce a very hot flame.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Acetylene is often used in oxy-acetylene welding.
- The reaction of acetylene with other chemicals can produce various compounds.
- Acetylene lamps were once commonly used in lighthouses.
Translations
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Origin of 'acetylene'
The word 'acetylene' derives from the word 'acetic', which relates to vinegar, and the suffix '-ylene,' a term often used in organic chemistry to denote unsaturation. The compound was first discovered in 1836 by the chemist Edmund Davy, who produced it by heating calcium carbide with water. However, it was not until 1892 that the name 'acetylene' was officially adopted. The use of acetylene surged in the late 19th century with the development of electric light and gas lighting. Acetylene was used in gas lamps, and its combination with oxygen made it an invaluable resource for welding and cutting metals, leading to its continued prominence in industries requiring high temperatures.