General Formula of Butanone
Butanone, also known as methyl ethyl ketone (MEK), is an organic compound with the molecular formula C4H8O. The general formula for ketones, which is the class of compounds to which butanone belongs, is CnH2nO, where 'n' is the number of carbon atoms in the molecule.
Structure of Butanone
- Butanone consists of a four-carbon chain.
- It contains a carbonyl group (C=O) which defines it as a ketone.
- The structure can be visualized as follows:
- CH3-CO-CH2-CH3
Functional Group
- The key feature of butanone is the carbonyl group (C=O) located at the second carbon of the chain.
- This positioning is what classifies it as a ketone instead of an aldehyde.
Properties of Butanone
- Physical State: Butanone is a colorless liquid.
- Odor: It has a sweet, fruity smell.
- Solubility: It is miscible with water, making it a useful solvent in various applications.
Applications of Butanone
- Solvent: Used in the production of plastics, textiles, and as a solvent in various industrial processes.
- Chemical Intermediate: Serves as a precursor in the synthesis of other chemicals, including pharmaceuticals.
Conclusion
In summary, butanone is a simple ketone with the general formula CnH2nO, specifically C4H8O. Its structure features a four-carbon chain with a carbonyl group, making it a versatile compound in industrial applications.