The monomer of polyethylene is ethylene - H2C=CH2. {eth=2 carbons, ene=a CC double bond} Two methane - H2CH2 or H3CH - molecules condense to form ethane: H3C-CH3 + 2 H+. Another 2 H+ removal, or condensation, gives the -ene H2C=CH2.
Polymerization of the -enes is the next step. Via another condensation reaction, a poly-eth-ene appears thusly: H2C=CH|HC=CH|HC=CH|HC=CH|HC=CH|HC... & etcetera.
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Methane gas does not directly react to form a polyethylene chain. Polyethylene is typically produced from ethylene gas through a process called polymerization, in which ethylene monomers are bonded together to form the polyethylene chain. Methane can be converted to ethylene through various chemical processes before polymerization can occur.
I have heard that Methane can be used to form longer chain hydrocarbon fuels, -why not the much higher energy bonded Acetylene?
For complete combustion of methane (CH4) to carbon dioxide (CO2) and water (H2O), two molecules of oxygen (O2) are needed for each molecule of methane. This balanced chemical equation is represented as: CH4 + 2O2 -> CO2 + 2H2O.
The combustion of propane in oxygen is exothermic, meaning it releases energy in the form of heat and light. Methane typically produces more energy when combusted compared to propane, as it has a higher energy content per unit mass. Methane is also more efficient in combustion due to its simpler chemical structure, which requires less energy to break its bonds.
Free radicals continue combustion by initiating chain reactions where they react with other molecules to form new radicals, which then react with more molecules, creating a self-sustaining cycle. This chain reaction produces heat and energy, contributing to the sustained combustion process.
Polymers formed from ethene include polyethylene (PE) and ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). These polymers have a wide range of applications due to their flexibility, durability, and resistance to moisture and chemicals. Polyethylene is commonly used in packaging, while EVA is used in footwear, adhesives, and solar cell encapsulation.