Definition

A type of gaseous hydrocarbon used in the production of butyl rubber and gasoline components.

Example

Isobutylene is an important chemical in the manufacturing of various rubber products.

Conversation

Have you heard about isobutylene?

Yeah, isn't it used in making butyl rubber?

Exactly! It's quite important in the gasoline industry too.

That's interesting. I didn't realize it had so many uses!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Isobutylene is formed from "iso-" (meaning equal or same) and "butylene" (from the root "butyric" which is derived from the Greek word "bous" meaning cow, referring to butyric acid found in butter). The term describes a specific type of butylene that has a branched structure, indicating its similarity to butylene but with a distinct arrangement.

Memory Tip

Think of 'iso-' meaning 'same' and 'butylene' relating to a type of compound — isobutylene is a similar but distinct form of butylene.

Visually Confused Words