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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Ethane and Ethanol?

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Ethane and ethanol are both organic compounds, but they have distinct differences in their chemical composition, physical properties, and applications. Here are the main differences between ethane and ethanol:

  1. Chemical Composition: Ethane has the chemical formula C2H6, whereas ethanol has the chemical formula C2H5OH. Ethane is an
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  • What is the Difference Between Ethane and Ethanol?
  • Comparative Table: Ethane vs Ethanol

    • Comparative Table: Ethane vs Ethanol

    The main difference between ethane and ethanol lies in their chemical composition and structure. Here is a comparison table highlighting the key differences between the two:

    Feature Ethane Ethanol
    Chemical Formula C2H6 C2H5OH
    Type of Compound Alkane Alcohol
    Carbon Atoms 2 2
    Hydrogen Atoms 6 5
    Oxygen Atoms 0 1
    Melting Point (°C) -183 -114
    Boiling Point (°C) -89 78
    Density (g/mL) 1.22 at 20°C 0.789 at 20°C
    Functional Group - Hydroxyl (-OH)
    Intermolecular Forces Weaker London dispersion forces Stronger hydrogen bonding

    Ethane (C2H6) is an organic compound and an alkane, meaning it has only single bonds between carbon atoms and contains the maximum number of hydrogen atoms. Ethanol (C2H5OH), on the other hand, is an alcohol, containing a hydroxyl group (-OH) as its functional group. The hydroxyl group in ethanol makes it more polar and leads to stronger hydrogen bonding compared to ethane, resulting in a higher melting point and boiling point.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.