C3H8

Propane is a hydrocarbon with the chemical formula C3H8. It is the simplest alkane containing three carbon atoms and is widely used as a fuel. In everyday language, it is often sold as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) when packaged with other light hydrocarbons.

Propane is a colorless, odorless gas at room temperature, but it is commonly odorized with a foul-smelling compound to aid leak detection. It is stored as a liquid under high pressure and becomes a gas when released from its container. Its boiling point is around −42.1 °C, and its molecular weight is about 44.1 g/mol. It is nonpolar and has low solubility in water. It is flammable and forms explosive mixtures with air within a wide concentration range.

Propane is primarily obtained from natural gas processing and petroleum refining. It is a major component of LPG, which is distributed in cylinders and bulk tanks for residential heating, cooking, and outdoor activities. It is also used as a fuel for forklifts, intracity buses in some markets, and as a feedstock in petrochemical manufacturing. In some applications, propane is used as a refrigerant (designated as R-290) due to its favorable thermodynamic properties.

Safety and handling are important due to its high flammability. Propane vapor can be heavier than air and may accumulate in low-lying areas. Leaks pose fire and asphyxiation hazards, and cylinders require proper storage, ventilation, and regular inspection. Environmental considerations include emissions of carbon dioxide and water vapor when combusted; propane burns more cleanly than many other fossil fuels but still contributes to greenhouse gas emissions.