Definition

A colorless and flammable gas that is a type of hydrocarbon, commonly used to make synthetic rubber.

Example

Butadiene is an important chemical in the production of various types of rubber.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of butadiene?

Yeah, I read it's used in making synthetic rubber.

Exactly! It's interesting how something like butadiene can be so important in everyday products.

For sure, it's amazing what goes into the things we use all the time.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Butadiene is formed from "but-" (from butyric, meaning four carbon atoms) and "-diene" (from Greek "dienos", meaning two double bonds). The word refers to a hydrocarbon with four carbon atoms and two double bonds between them.

Memory Tip

Think of 'but-' meaning four carbon atoms and '-diene' indicating two double bonds — this helps you remember that butadiene is a compound with four carbons and two double bonds.

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