Ethylene Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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ethylene
[หษฮธษชliหn ]
Definition
chemical compound
Ethylene is a colorless gas with a sweet odor and taste, commonly used in the production of various chemicals and plastics. It is a hydrocarbon with the formula C2H4, and serves as a basic building block in the production of polyethylene, ethylene oxide, and other essential chemicals. Ethylene is naturally produced by plants and is known to play a significant role in the process of ripening fruits. Its significant applications in agriculture as a plant hormone to regulate growth and development further highlight its importance in both industrial and biological contexts.
Synonyms
ethene, ethylene gas.
Examples of usage
- Ethylene is used extensively in the plastics industry.
- The ripening of bananas is influenced by ethylene gas.
- Researchers are studying ethylene's role in plant development.
- Ethylene production is a crucial aspect of petrochemical processing.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Agriculture
- Ethylene is naturally produced by fruits and vegetables, signaling them to ripen and mature.
- Farmers often use ethylene in controlled ripening processes, ensuring that fruits reach consumers at the perfect sweetness.
- Some plants, like flowers, also use ethylene to trigger blooming and senescence (aging).
Industry
- It's a key building block for producing various plastics, particularly polyethylene, which is widely used in packaging.
- Ethylene is one of the most produced organic compounds in the world, with millions of tons manufactured annually for diverse industrial applications.
Health and Safety
- Though ethylene is useful, it can be hazardous; it's flammable and requires careful handling in industrial settings.
- Exposure to high concentrations can cause headaches or respiratory issues, so safety measures are crucial in its production.
Pop Culture
- In some documentaries about food and science, ethylene is highlighted for its role in understanding how to prolong the shelf life of fresh produce.
- Movies and shows sometimes reference the gas when discussing the secrets of fruit ripening or agricultural science.
Origin of 'ethylene'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'ethylene' comes from 'ethane,' a simple hydrocarbon, with the suffix '-ene' suggesting it is an alkene, a type of unsaturated hydrocarbon.
- The name was first introduced in the mid-19th century when scientists discovered the compound.
The term 'ethylene' is derived from the Greek word 'aithฤr,' meaning 'upper air' or 'pure fresh air,' reflecting its gaseous state. The word has historical roots in organic chemistry, where it was first identified in the early 19th century. It was recognized as a distinct chemical compound in 1825 when English scientist Michael Faraday first isolated it from the heat of yield of gas during the electrolysis of ethanol. In 1869, chemists confirmed its structure as a simple hydrocarbon with a double bond, contributing to its definition as a crucial building block in organic synthesis. Over the years, ethylene's role expanded significantly as it became vital in the petrochemical industry, leading to widespread applications in manufacturing and agriculture. Its identification as a plant hormone in the 20th century further attributed biological significance to ethylene, linking it to processes such as ripening and growth in various crops.