Acetylene and Acetylides
Acetylene and acetylides are easy to make and simple to understand. Acetylene (ethyne) is one of the tiniest organic compounds. Its formula is C₂H₂. The two carbon atoms share a triple bond. Its structure is HC≡CH. Acetylides are produced from acetylene by replacing one hydrogen atom. Acetylene is a useful fuel. Despite this, acetylene can form acetylides that are extremely dangerous, explosive! Making Acetylene Making the gas is simple. Mixing calcium carbide with water makes acetylene. CaC₂ + 2 H₂O → Ca(OH)₂ + C₂H₂↑ Calcium Carbide Where does calcium carbide come from? Lime and coke are combined at temperatures ranging from 2000 to 2100 degrees C in an electric arc furnace. CaO + 3C → CaC₂ + CO↑ [caption id="attachment_16272" align="alignright" width="280"] Calcium carbide[/caption] Triple Bond What is the origin of…