What is the formula of cyclohexane?

Correct option is A

​The correct answer is (a) C₆H₁₂

Explanation: Cyclohexane is a colorless, flammable liquid with a distinctive detergent-like odor. It is a saturated hydrocarbon, meaning it consists only of carbon (C) and hydrogen (H) atoms with single bonds between the carbon atoms, making it an alkane. Its chemical formula is C₆H₁₂

Key Properties of Cyclohexane:

1. Structure: The molecule has a six-membered carbon ring, where each carbon is bonded to two hydrogen atoms. Cyclohexane’s structure is often represented as a ring with alternating single bonds between carbon atoms. The carbon atoms in cyclohexane adopt a chair or boat conformation, with the chair form being the more stable due to less steric strain.

2. Physical Properties:

   • Boiling Point: 80.7°C
   • Melting Point: 6.5°C
   • Solubility: Cyclohexane is insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents like ethanol, ether, and chloroform.
   • Density: It has a lower density than water.

3. Uses:

   • Solvent: Cyclohexane is commonly used as a solvent in the chemical industry, particularly in the production of adhesives, paints, and coatings.
   • Production of Nylon: It is a key intermediate in the industrial production of caprolactam, which is used to synthesize nylon-6.
   • Petroleum: Cyclohexane is present in small quantities in gasoline and is produced during the refining process of petroleum.

4. Reactivity: Cyclohexane is relatively unreactive compared to unsaturated hydrocarbons (like alkenes). It can undergo typical reactions for alkanes, such as combustion, halogenation (in the presence of UV light), and hydrogenation.

5. Health and Safety: While cyclohexane is useful in industry, it can be harmful if inhaled or ingested. Prolonged exposure may cause dizziness, headaches, and even liver damage. It is also highly flammable, so precautions should be taken to avoid fire hazards.