ethylene
/ˈɛθɪliːn/
Definition
A gaseous hydrocarbon typically derived from fossil fuels, used as a fundamental building block in the chemical industry to create plastics and other materials.
Etymology
Derived from 'ethyl,' referring to the chemical group containing two carbon atoms, combined with the suffix '-ene,' which denotes a double bond in organic chemistry. The term originated in the 19th century to describe the gas that forms oily liquids when combined with chlorine.
In the news
In the article, ethylene is mentioned in the context of 'carbon-negative ethylene,' referring to innovative industrial processes that produce this chemical while reducing or capturing carbon emissions. It represents a significant technological advancement in decarbonizing heavy industrial production.
The next phase of Canada's energy transition
Read the full article ↗Sustainable Biz Canada