#CryptoFees101 Ethene, also known as ethylene, is a hydrocarbon with the chemical formula C2H4. It's a colorless, flammable gas with a sweet, musky odor. Here are some key properties and uses:

Physical Properties

1. Molecular weight: 28.05 g/mol

2. Boiling point: -103.7°C

3. Melting point: -169.2°C

4. Density: 1.178 kg/m³ (at 15°C)

Chemical Properties

1. Highly flammable and reactive

2. Can polymerize to form polyethylene

3. Reacts with halogens, acids, and other compounds

Uses

1. *Plastic production*: Ethene is a key building block for polyethylene, one of the most widely used plastics.

2. *Fruit ripening*: Ethene is used to ripen fruits, such as bananas and tomatoes, by stimulating the production of enzymes that break down cell walls.

3. *Agricultural chemicals*: Ethene is used as an intermediate in the production of pesticides, herbicides, and other agricultural chemicals.

4. *Fuel*: Ethene can be used as a fuel, particularly in the production of ethanol.

Safety and Health

1. *Flammable and explosive*: Ethene is highly flammable and can be explosive in certain conditions.

2. *Toxicity*: Prolonged exposure to ethene can cause respiratory problems, headaches, and dizziness.

Environmental Impact

1. *Greenhouse gas*: Ethene is a potent greenhouse gas, contributing to climate change.

2. *Air pollution*: Ethene can react with other pollutants to form ground-level ozone, contributing to air pollution.