Tuesday, July 28, 2015

What are the benefits and drawbacks of using organic molecules like ethene and ethanol?

Organic molecules are the molecules that contain carbon; they are wide-spread in various aspects of our life. Our food, beverages, fuels, medicines, etc. are all organic molecules. Without such organic molecules, we cannot survive. They are also part of our bodies and those of animals and plants, and also form many rocks. The wide-spread presence and wide variety of applications (such as transportation, etc.) are some of the biggest pros of using organic molecules. 


The...

Organic molecules are the molecules that contain carbon; they are wide-spread in various aspects of our life. Our food, beverages, fuels, medicines, etc. are all organic molecules. Without such organic molecules, we cannot survive. They are also part of our bodies and those of animals and plants, and also form many rocks. The wide-spread presence and wide variety of applications (such as transportation, etc.) are some of the biggest pros of using organic molecules. 


The biggest drawback of using organic molecules is the generation of carbon dioxide on their combustion. Carbon dioxide is a known greenhouse gas and its elevated levels are considered to be the main reason for climate change. 


Ethanol is a fuel additive and reduces the greenhouse gas emissions (as compared to fossil fuels). There are a large number of industrial applications of ethanol as well. However, one big concern is should we divert our food crops (such as corn) for making ethanol? 


Ethene or ethylene, apart from industrial applications, is used in agriculture for fastening the growth of fruits and flowers, though this shortens their shelf life. 


Hope this helps.

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