Alkane Properties and Refining Process

Alkane Overview

• Derived from fractional distillation of crude oil, a key source of hydrocarbons.
• General formula: CnH2n+2, indicating saturated hydrocarbons composed of only carbon and hydrogen.
• Characterized by single bonds (C-C) between carbon atoms, making them saturated.
• Typically colorless compounds.

Physical Properties of Alkanes

• Exhibit stronger intermolecular forces due to stable C-C bonds.
• Do not conduct electricity due to the absence of free-moving electrons.
• Melting point (M.P) and boiling point (B.P) decrease with a reduced number of carbon atoms, while increasing as the number of carbon atoms rises.
• Density increases with the number of carbon atoms, affecting molecular size and color, resulting in some alkanes being harder to ignite and having higher viscosity.

Chemical Properties of Alkanes

• Combustion reaction: Alkane + Oxygen → Carbon Dioxide + Water.
• Example reaction: Methane + Oxygen → Carbon Dioxide + 2H2O, illustrating the combustion process.

Refinery Products from Alkanes

• Petroleum gas (C1-C4) and natural gas are light products.
• Gasoline (C5-C12) is used primarily as fuel in vehicles.
• Naphtha serves as a precursor for chemicals and plastics, including plastic bags.
• Kerosene or paraffin is commonly used as jet fuel.
• Diesel is reserved for diesel engine vehicles.
• Fuel oil and lubricating oil (which can produce waxes) are derived from heavier fractions.
• Bitumen is the heaviest residue, utilized in paving and roofing.

Cracking Process

• Involves breaking larger hydrocarbon molecules into smaller, more useful molecules, enhancing the efficiency of fuel production.