The compound identified as containing 4.07% hydrogen is Dichloroethane.
Dichloroethane is an organic compound characterized by its specific elemental composition, which includes hydrogen, carbon, and chlorine. This particular compound's identity is determined by analyzing the precise proportions of each element present and its overall molar mass.
Elemental Composition of Dichloroethane
The unique composition of Dichloroethane, which features 4.07% hydrogen, is further defined by the specific percentages of its other constituent elements. Understanding these proportions is key to identifying the compound.
| Element | Percentage by Mass |
|---|---|
| Hydrogen | 4.07% |
| Carbon | 24.27% |
| Chlorine | 71.65% |
Based on these percentages and a molar mass of approximately 98.96 g/mol, the molecular formula for this compound is determined to be C2H4Cl2. This formula precisely represents the number of atoms of carbon, hydrogen, and chlorine in each molecule of Dichloroethane.
Understanding Dichloroethane (C2H4Cl2)
Dichloroethane refers to a group of organic compounds derived from ethane, where two hydrogen atoms have been replaced by two chlorine atoms. The most common isomers are 1,1-dichloroethane and 1,2-dichloroethane, both sharing the molecular formula C2H4Cl2 and the described elemental composition.
Properties and Common Uses
Dichloroethane compounds are typically colorless liquids with a sweet, chloroform-like odor. They are widely utilized in various industrial applications due to their effectiveness as solvents and as intermediates in chemical synthesis.
Common applications include:
- Solvent: Used as a solvent for fats, oils, waxes, resins, and other organic materials in laboratories and industrial processes.
- Chemical Intermediate: A crucial precursor in the production of other chemicals, particularly vinyl chloride, which is then used to produce polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic.
- Degreasing Agent: Employed in metal degreasing operations.
- Adhesives and Paints: Can be found in formulations for certain adhesives, paints, and varnishes.
While effective in various roles, it's important to note that Dichloroethane compounds are volatile and can pose health and environmental considerations, necessitating careful handling and appropriate safety measures in their use and disposal.
For more detailed information on Dichloroethane, you can refer to reputable chemical databases such as PubChem.
