Propane

Propane is an organic chemical compound, normally a gas at standard conditions, but compressible to a transportable liquid. It has the chemical formula C₃H₈.

Properties

Chemical

In the presence of excess oxygen, propane burns to form water and carbon dioxide, releasing large amounts of heat.

C₃H₈ + 5 O₂ → 3 CO₂ + 4 H₂O + heat

Physical

Propane is a colorless, odorless gas at standard conditions. It boils at around −42°C and freezes at −187.7 °C.

Availability

Propane is available in LPG tanks, usually mixed with other alkanes or alkenes and thiols. This combination is generally used for gas grills.

Preparation

Propane can be prepared through the decarboxylation of sodium butyrate with sodium hydroxide.

Reduction of n-propanol or isopropanol will also yield propane gas.

Projects

• Make propene
• Make nitromethane
• Halopropanes

Handling

Safety

Propane is nontoxic, but may pose asphyxiation risk through oxygen deprivation if inhaled. When compressed propane is released, the gas expands and cools, presenting a frostbite hazard.

Storage

Liquified propane should be stored away from heat sources.

Disposal

Propane can be burned safely, as it will not release toxic byproducts.

References

Relevant Sciencemadness threads

• propane to propene
• Freezing propane