Butane

Butane is an organic compound with the chemical formula . It is an alkane with four carbon atoms. It is used as a fuel (sometimes with propane) and in aerosol cans.

Butane is usually sold as a mixture of its two isomers, n-butane and isobutane. In IUPAC's official chemical nomenclature, "butane" means n-butane.

 Uses of Butane 
Butane is sold in canisters, for cooking and camping. It is also used as fuel in cigarette lighters, and as propellant in aerosol sprays or deodorants. Some kinds of Butane are used in refrigerators.

Mixtures with Propane are known as LPG.

 Dangers 
Butane can be hazardous. Inhalation can lead to death by asphyxiation due to displacement of oxygen in the lungs. Contact with the skin can lead to frostbite. If the gas is mixed with air and ignited, it is prone to explode like many other fuels that are volatile.

References

 Other websites 
 International Chemical Safety Card 0232
 NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards
 n-Butane  Molecule of the Month
 Molview from bluerhinos.co.uk  See Butane in 3D
 Computational Chemistry Wiki 
 World LP Gas Association (WLPGA)
 LP Gas Association: Propane and Butane in the UK 
 Global BioSciences  In-Situ Bioremediation utilizing Butane
 Butane Viscosity as function of   temperature and pressure

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Category:Fuel