Vinylbenzene (Noun)
Meaning
A colorless oily liquid; the monomer for polystyrene.
Classification
Nouns denoting substances.
Examples
- The chemical formula for vinylbenzene is C6H5CH=CH2, indicating that it is a derivative of benzene with a vinyl group attached to the ring.
- Vinylbenzene is primarily used as a precursor to polystyrene, a thermoplastic with a wide range of applications in packaging and consumer products.
- The production of vinylbenzene involves the alkylation of benzene with ethylene in the presence of an acid catalyst.
- The physical properties of vinylbenzene include a boiling point of 145 degrees Celsius and a density of around 0.908 g/cm3 at 20 degrees Celsius.
- Due to its volatility and toxicity, vinylbenzene requires special handling and storage precautions to minimize the risk of exposure and environmental contamination.