Hexane vs. Cyclohexane: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Published on January 10, 2024
Hexane is a straight-chain alkane with six carbon atoms. Cyclohexane is a cyclic alkane with a ring structure of six carbon atoms.
Key Differences
Hexane is a linear hydrocarbon with the formula C6H14, characterized by its straight-chain structure. Cyclohexane, also with the formula C6H14, differs by having a cyclic, ring-like structure.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 10, 2024
In hexane, the carbon atoms are connected in a straight line, allowing for more flexibility in its molecular structure. Cyclohexane’s ring structure restricts its flexibility, giving it unique chemical properties.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 10, 2024
Hexane is often used as a non-polar solvent in laboratories and industries. Cyclohexane, with its ring structure, is used in the synthesis of nylon and other industrial processes.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 10, 2024
Hexane exhibits different chemical reactivity compared to cyclohexane due to its linear structure. Cyclohexane's reactivity is influenced by the tensions in its ring structure.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 10, 2024
Hexane has lower boiling and melting points than cyclohexane, reflecting the difference in their molecular structures and intermolecular forces.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 10, 2024
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Comparison Chart
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Hexane and Cyclohexane Definitions
Hexane
A hydrocarbon with a straight-chain structure.
Hexane is commonly used to extract cooking oils from seeds.
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Dec 17, 2023
Cyclohexane
A component in the manufacture of industrial products.
Cyclohexane is transformed into adipic acid for nylon synthesis.
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Dec 17, 2023
Hexane
A linear alkane with six carbon atoms.
The molecular formula of hexane is C6H14.
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Dec 17, 2023
Cyclohexane
Used in chemical synthesis processes.
Cyclohexane is a starting material for many organic syntheses.
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Dec 17, 2023
Hexane
A volatile organic compound.
Hexane evaporates quickly at room temperature.
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Dec 17, 2023
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Cyclohexane
A cyclic alkane with six carbon atoms.
Cyclohexane is a key intermediate in nylon production.
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Dec 17, 2023
Hexane
A non-polar solvent.
Hexane is used in laboratories to dissolve oil-based substances.
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Dec 17, 2023
Cyclohexane
A non-polar solvent with a ring structure.
Cyclohexane is used to dissolve certain plastics.
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Dec 17, 2023
Hexane
A component of gasoline.
Hexane contributes to the volatility of gasoline.
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Dec 17, 2023
Cyclohexane
A ring-shaped hydrocarbon.
Cyclohexane's ring structure influences its chemical reactions.
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Dec 17, 2023
Hexane
Any of several isomeric colorless flammable liquid hydrocarbons, C6H14, derived from the fractional distillation of petroleum and used as a solvent and as a working fluid in low-temperature thermometers.
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Dec 13, 2023
Cyclohexane
A flammable, colorless, mobile liquid cycloalkane, C6H12, obtained from petroleum and benzene and used in the manufacture of nylon and as a solvent, a paint remover, and a varnish remover.
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Dec 13, 2023
Hexane
(organic compound) Any of five isomeric aliphatic hydrocarbons, C6H14. They are colorless, volatile liquids.
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Dec 13, 2023
Cyclohexane
(organic compound) An alicyclic hydrocarbon, C6H12, consisting of a ring of six carbon atoms; a volatile liquid.
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Dec 13, 2023
Hexane
Any one of five hydrocarbons, C6H14, of the paraffin series. They are colorless, volatile liquids, and are so called because the molecule has six carbon atoms.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 13, 2023
Hexane
A colorless flammable liquid alkane derived from petroleum and used as a solvent
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Dec 13, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
Are hexane and cyclohexane isomers?
Yes, they have the same molecular formula but different structures.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 10, 2024
What is the impact of hexane's structure on its properties?
Its linear structure makes it more flexible and volatile.
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Jan 10, 2024
How do the boiling points of hexane and cyclohexane compare?
Cyclohexane has a higher boiling point.
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Jan 10, 2024
How does cyclohexane’s ring structure affect its reactivity?
The ring structure introduces ring strain, affecting its chemical reactions.
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Jan 10, 2024
Are hexane and cyclohexane flammable?
Both are flammable, with hexane being more volatile.
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Jan 10, 2024
Can hexane and cyclohexane mix with oils and fats?
Yes, both dissolve non-polar substances like oils and fats.
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Jan 10, 2024
Is cyclohexane soluble in water?
Like hexane, it is also insoluble in water.
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Jan 10, 2024
Why is cyclohexane used in industrial processes?
Its chemical properties make it suitable for complex syntheses.
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Jan 10, 2024
Can hexane dissolve in water?
No, hexane is non-polar and insoluble in water.
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Jan 10, 2024
How do the densities of hexane and cyclohexane compare?
They have similar densities, but cyclohexane is slightly denser.
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Jan 10, 2024
What are the environmental impacts of hexane?
Hexane can contribute to air pollution and is a neurotoxin.
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Jan 10, 2024
Is cyclohexane safer than hexane?
Both have health and environmental risks; safety depends on handling.
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Jan 10, 2024
What role does cyclohexane play in plastic production?
It's a precursor for compounds used in plastics like nylon.
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Jan 10, 2024
How are hexane and cyclohexane produced?
They are derived from petroleum refining processes.
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Jan 10, 2024
Is hexane more volatile than cyclohexane?
Yes, due to its linear structure.
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Jan 10, 2024
Can hexane be used in pharmaceuticals?
It's used in some extraction processes but not in the final products.
Shumaila Saeed
Jan 10, 2024
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
Shumaila Saeed
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