Naphthene: meaning, definitions and examples
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naphthene
[ˈnæfθiːn ]
Definition
Context #1 | Noun
chemical compound
Naphthene refers to a class of hydrocarbons that are cycloparaffins or cyclic alkanes. These compounds typically contain one or more cyclopentane or cyclohexane rings. Naphthenes are important in the petrochemical industry and in the production of fuels and lubricants.
Synonyms
alicyclic hydrocarbon, cycloparaffin.
Examples of usage
- Naphthenes can be found in crude oil.
- Petroleum products often contain significant amounts of naphthenes.
- Certain naphthenes are used to improve gasoline characteristics.
- Naphthenic acids are derived from naphthenes and used in various industrial applications.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- 'Naphthene' comes from the word 'naphtha', which refers to a flammable liquid derived from oil, used in making many products.
- The name roots back to the Greek word 'naphtha', translating to 'liquid' or 'oily substance'.
Science
- Naphthenes are classified as cycloalkanes, which means their carbon atoms are arranged in a ring shape.
- They are important in the petroleum industry because they improve the quality of fuels by enhancing their properties.
- Naphthenes can contribute to the sooty buildup in engines, highlighting the fine balance between efficiency and pollution.
Environmental Impact
- The presence of naphthenes in fuels can lead to more efficient combustion but can also create environmental concerns due to emissions.
- Efforts are being made to manage naphthene pollution through better refining processes and alternative energy sources.
Industrial Usage
- Aside from fuels, naphthenes are also used in the production of lubricating oils and in the manufacture of some plastics.
- Specific types of naphthenes, like those found in certain crude oils, can indicate the quality and refining potential of the oil.
Pop Culture
- Although naphthene itself doesn’t appear in mainstream media, its derivatives impact many products we use daily, from fuels to plastics.
- Chemistry-related themes in movies sometimes reference hydrocarbons, indirectly relating to compounds like naphthene.