Alkenes are a type of hydrocarbons that are distinguished by the presence of carbon-carbon double bonds. They are useful building blocks that may be used to create a wide range of derivatives, each of which has distinct chemical properties and uses. There are many derivatives of alkenes, but some stand out more than others.Halogenated alkenes are a well-known class of alkene derivatives in which one or more hydrogen atoms bound to the double bond's carbon atoms are swapped out for halogen atoms like iodine, chlorine, or bromine. Due to the halogens' introduction of reactivity and modification of the parent alkene's physical characteristics, these derivatives are widely used in organic synthesis. For example, because 1,2-dibromoethene (also called ethylene dibromide, or EDB) is harmful to nematodes and other soil-dwelling pests, it has been used as a soil fumigant and pesticide. Another class of alkene derivatives called epoxides or oxiranes is produced by oxidation processes. These cyclic ethers are crucial intermediates in the synthesis of numerous medications, agrochemicals, and fine chemicals. They have a three-membered ring with an oxygen atom. For instance, ethylene glycol, an essential ingredient in the production of polyester fibers and antifreeze solutions, is derived from ethylene oxide, which is produced on a massive scale by the direct oxidation of ethylene.Alkanes or saturated hydrocarbons are created when hydrogen gas is added to the double bond of alkenes. This process is known as hydrogenation. Not only does this process saturate not only strengthens the double bond but also gives the final product more stability and combustibility. In the industrial setting, catalytic hydrogenation of alkenes is frequently used to produce lubricants, fuels, and other petrochemicals. One important feedstock for the synthesis of ethylene-derived compounds, such as ethylene dichloride (EDC), ethylene oxide (EO), and polyethylene, is ethane, which is produced when ethylene is hydrogenated.Electrophilic addition reactions, in which alkenes react with acids to produce alkyl halides or alkyl sulfonates, are also possible. These compounds are useful as transitions in organic synthesis, especially when making functional materials, agrochemicals, and medicines. For instance, 2-chloropropane, a crucial solvent and intermediary in the manufacture of medications and insecticides, is produced when propene and hydrochloric acid are combined. To sum up, the wide range of alkene derivatives includes epoxides, hydrogenated alkanes, halogenated alkenes, and electrophilic addition products, all of which are essential for a variety of industrial, medicinal, and agricultural uses.
