Definition

A type of liquid hydrocarbon that is mainly used to make another chemical called styrene.

Example

Ethylbenzene is an important ingredient in the production of polystyrene.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of ethylbenzene?

I think I read about it in a chemistry class once.

Yeah, it's used in making styrene, right?

Exactly! It’s interesting how many chemicals we encounter in everyday products.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ethylbenzene is formed from "ethyl" (from Greek "aithylios", meaning to burn) and "benzene" (from the German "Benzol", derived from the Latin "benzoicum" meaning from gum benzoin). Ethylbenzene refers to a compound that includes an ethyl group attached to a benzene ring.

Memory Tip

Think of 'ethyl' relating to burning and 'benzene' as a type of aromatic compound — ethylbenzene is a compound that combines these two elements.

Visually Confused Words