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Propane: meaning, definitions and examples

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propane

 

[ ˈproʊpeɪn ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

chemical compound

Propane is a three-carbon alkane gas that is commonly used as a fuel. It is colorless and odorless in its pure form but is typically mixed with a strong-smelling agent (like ethyl mercaptan) for safety reasons. Propane is widely used in heating, cooking, and as a fuel for engines.

Synonyms

C3H8, dimethylmethane, propyl hydride

Examples of usage

  • We use propane for our barbecue grill.
  • Propane-powered vehicles emit fewer pollutants.
  • The camp stove runs on propane canisters.

Translations

Translations of the word "propane" in other languages:

🇵🇹 propano

🇮🇳 प्रोपेन

🇩🇪 Propangas

🇮🇩 propan

🇺🇦 пропан

🇵🇱 propan

🇯🇵 プロパン

🇫🇷 propane

🇪🇸 propano

🇹🇷 propan

🇰🇷 프로판

🇸🇦 بروبان

🇨🇿 propan

🇸🇰 propan

🇨🇳 丙烷

🇸🇮 propan

🇮🇸 própán

🇰🇿 пропан

🇬🇪 პროფანი

🇦🇿 propan

🇲🇽 propano

Etymology

The term propane comes from the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry (IUPAC) name, which is derived from the prefix 'prop-' based on its chemical structure that contains three carbon atoms, followed by the suffix '-ane' denoting it as an alkane. It was first discovered during the 19th century amidst the study of hydrocarbons. Notably, in 1910, propane was separated from natural gas by a chemist named Dr. Walter Snelling, leading to its commercialization. Initially considered waste by the petroleum industry, its potential applications as a fuel were realized, and since then it has been used widely for heating, cooking, and fueling vehicles. Propane's popularity has increased due to its efficiency, cleanliness, and relatively lower environmental impact compared to other fossil fuels.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,433, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.