Propane is an alkane with the chemical formula C3H8. As a type of hydrocarbon, it can undergo hydrocarbon combustion, which gives off heat. Propane is one of the hydrocarbon components of raw natural gas, which is a type of fossil fuel.[2] Propane is usually removed from natural gas before being shipped to customers, but is also sold separately as a fuel on its own.
Propane is normally in a gaseous state during consumption. However, it is normally stored as a liquefied propane gas in tanks such as the one shown in Figure 2. Propane has one of the highest energy densities (50.3 MJ/kg) of any hydrocarbon, second only to methane.[4]
Propane is a hydrocarbon commonly used in domestic settings. It is normally seen in appliances such as barbecues, patio heaters, and camping stoves.
Below is a table of some of the basic properties of propane.
Chemical formula | C3H8 |
Molecular Mass | 44.1 grams/mole |
Energy density | 50.3 MJ/kg[4] |
Melting Point | -190oC[5] |
Boiling Point | -42oC[5] |
Propane releases its chemical energy by undergoing hydrocarbon combustion. Below is a hydrocarbon combustion animation showing the net reaction that occurs when propane combines with oxygen.
The hydrocarbon combustion reaction releases heat energy and is an example of an exothermic reaction. The reaction also has a negative enthalpy change (ΔH) value.
Bethel Afework, Semaa Amin, Ethan Boechler, Allison Campbell, Jordan Hanania, James Jenden, Kailyn Stenhouse, Jason Donev
Last updated: September 27, 2021
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