Alkynes are hydrocarbons that contain carbon-carbon triple bonds. The general molecular formula for acyclic alkynes is C n H 2n-2 and its degree of unsaturation is two. Acetylene or ethyne is the simplest alkyne, it was discovered by Berthelot in 1862.
Acetylene can be obtained from calcium oxide and coke.
In a first stage they are heated in an electric furnace to form calcium carbide. CaO+3C ------> CaC 2 + CO 2
In the second stage, calcium carbide reacts with water to form acetylene.
CaC 2 + 2H 2 O ------>Ca(OH) 2 + C 2 H 2
Acetylene was used in industry to prepare acetaldehyde, acetic acid, vinyl chloride, and acrylic polymers.
There are numerous examples of natural products that contain triple bonds.
Capillin, which has fungicidal activity. Enodiinos, which have anticancer properties.
