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3-Pentanone facts for kids

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3-Pentanone
3-Pentanone structure.svg
3-Pentanone-3D-balls.png
Other names Diethyl ketone, diethylketone, 3-pentanone, dimethyl acetone, propione, metacetone, methacetone, ethyl ketone
Identifiers
Abbreviations DEK
CAS number 96-22-0
ChEBI CHEBI:87755
SMILES O=C(CC)CC
Properties
Molecular formula
Molar mass 0 g mol-1
Appearance Colorless liquid
Odor Acetone-like
Density 0.81 g/cm3 at 20 °C
Melting point
Boiling point
35 g/L
Vapor pressure 35 mmHg
-58.14·10−6 cm3/mol
Hazards
Explosive limits 1.6%-6.4%
U.S. Permissible
exposure limit (PEL)
none
Except where noted otherwise, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C, 100 kPa)

3-Pentanone, also called diethyl ketone, is a clear liquid chemical. It is an organic compound, meaning it is made mostly of carbon and hydrogen atoms. It belongs to a group of chemicals called ketones. 3-Pentanone smells like acetone (nail polish remover) and can mix with water.

What is 3-Pentanone?

3-Pentanone is a type of ketone. Ketones are organic compounds that have a special group of atoms called a carbonyl group (a carbon atom double-bonded to an oxygen atom) within their structure. In 3-Pentanone, this group is in the middle of a chain of five carbon atoms.

Chemical Makeup

This chemical has a formula of C5H10O. This means each molecule of 3-Pentanone contains:

  • Five carbon atoms
  • Ten hydrogen atoms
  • One oxygen atom

It is a colorless liquid at room temperature. It has a density of about 0.81 grams per cubic centimeter. This means it is lighter than water.

How Does it Behave?

3-Pentanone melts at a very cold temperature, around -39 degrees Celsius. It boils at 102 degrees Celsius, which is just above the boiling point of water. It can dissolve in water, with about 35 grams dissolving in one liter of water.

How is 3-Pentanone Used?

3-Pentanone is a useful chemical in many ways. Its main uses are as a solvent and in making other important compounds.

As a Solvent

A solvent is a substance that can dissolve other substances. 3-Pentanone is used as a solvent in different products, such as:

  • Paints: It helps to dissolve the ingredients in paint, making it smooth and easy to apply.
  • Varnishes: Similar to paints, it helps create a smooth finish.
  • Lacquers: These are clear or colored coatings that dry to a hard, durable finish.

Making Other Chemicals

3-Pentanone is also used as a building block to create other chemicals. One important use is in making vitamin E. Vitamin E is an important nutrient that helps keep our bodies healthy.

Safety Information

Like many chemicals, 3-Pentanone needs to be handled with care.

Flammability

3-Pentanone is a flammable liquid. This means it can catch fire easily. Its flash point is around 12.78 degrees Celsius. The flash point is the lowest temperature at which a liquid gives off enough vapor to form a flammable mixture with air. It can also autoignite (catch fire by itself) at 425 degrees Celsius.

Safe Handling

Because it is flammable, 3-Pentanone should be kept away from heat, sparks, and open flames. It should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated area. When working with it, people should use proper safety equipment to avoid direct contact or breathing in too much vapor.

See also

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