What is the Difference Between Methylacetylene and Acetylene?

Methylacetylene and acetylene are both organic compounds with triple bonded carbon atoms, belonging to the alkyne series. The key difference between methylacetylene and acetylene is that methylacetylene contains a methyl group, while acetylene has a pair of triple bonded carbon atoms. Here are some additional differences between the two:

• Chemical Formula: Methylacetylene, also known as propyne, has the chemical formula CH3C≡CH, while acetylene has the chemical formula C2H2.
• Odor: Methylacetylene has a sweet odor, whereas acetylene has a garlic-like odor.
• Stability: Methylacetylene is a more stable fuel gas than acetylene, meaning it is less likely to decompose or explode.
• Flame Temperature: Although acetylene has a higher flame temperature (3160 °C, 5720 °F), methylacetylene, when mixed with propadiene and propane, forms MAPP gas, which has an energy content of 21,000 BTU/lb (13.57 kWh/kg).
• Production: Methylacetylene is made via reducing 1-propanol, allyl alcohol, or acetone vapors over a magnesium catalyst, while acetylene is made through the reaction of calcium carbide with water.
• Safety: Methylacetylene, in the form of MAPP gas, requires neither dilution nor special container fillers, making it safer to transport and use compared to acetylene.

In summary, while methylacetylene and acetylene are both alkyne series compounds with triple bonded carbon atoms, they differ in their chemical formulas, odors, stability, flame temperatures, production methods, and safety profiles.

Comparative Table: Methylacetylene vs Acetylene

Methylacetylene and acetylene are both simple alkene compounds in the alkene series. The key difference between the two is the presence of a methyl group attached to an acetylene molecule in methylacetylene. Here is a table summarizing the differences and properties of methylacetylene and acetylene:

Both methylacetylene and acetylene are used in various applications, such as oxy-fuel cutting and welding processes.