Ethane and propane – gases, the most ordinary representatives of a number of saturated hydrocarbons - alkanes. Their chemical formulas C2H6 and C3H8 respectively. Ethane serves as raw materials for production of ethylene. Propane is used as fuel as in pure form, and in mix with other hydrocarbons.
Instruction
1. In order that to receive propane, will be necessary for you two most plain hydrocarbons: methane and ethane. Separately from each other subject them to halogenation (more precisely, to chlorination) as a result of ultra-violet radiation. It is necessary in order that initiators of reaction – free radicals were formed. The following reactions result: - CH4 + Cl2 = CH3Cl + HCl, that is are formed chloride methane and chloride hydrogen; - C2H6 + Cl2 = C2H5Cl + HCl, that is forms chloride ethane and chloride hydrogen.
2. After that subject chloride methane and chloride ethane to influence in the presence of metal sodium. As a result of the proceeding reaction, propane and chloride sodium are formed. Reaction takes place according to such scheme: - C2H5Cl + CH3Cl + 2Na = C3H8 + 2NaCl. Such reactions carry the name "Vyurts's reaction", called in honor of the famous German chemist who for the first time carried out synthesis of symmetric hydrocarbon by interaction of sodium on halogen producing alkanes.
3. In reactions of halogenation instead of chlorine you can apply also bromine. It is simple if to use more active chlorine, reaction proceeds quicker and easier.
4. In the industry propane from ethane is not received: this process is absolutely unprofitable. Such reactions represent purely educational interest, they are used for working off and fixing of laboratory skills.