Butüleenide

Butüleenid is a term that can refer to several different chemical compounds, all containing a four-carbon chain with at least one double bond. The most common interpretation refers to the isomeric hydrocarbons with the molecular formula C4H8. These compounds are alkenes.

The specific isomers include but-1-ene, but-2-ene (which exists as cis- and trans- isomers), and isobutylene (also known as 2-methylpropene). Each of these isomers has a unique structural arrangement of the carbon atoms and the double bond. But-1-ene has the double bond between the first and second carbon atoms. But-2-ene has the double bond between the second and third carbon atoms. Isobutylene has a branched carbon chain with the double bond between the first and second carbon atoms of the main chain, and a methyl group attached to the second carbon.

These butüleenid compounds are generally produced from the cracking of petroleum. They are important intermediates in the petrochemical industry. For instance, but-1-ene is used in the production of polyethylene, a common plastic. Isobutylene is a precursor to various chemicals, including antioxidants and synthetic rubber. Their reactivity stems from the presence of the carbon-carbon double bond, which readily undergoes addition reactions.