Cyclohexane vs. Hexane — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on October 30, 2023
Cyclohexane is a ring-shaped molecule with six carbon atoms, while hexane is a straight-chain molecule with six carbons. Both are hydrocarbons, but cyclohexane is cyclic and hexane is linear.
Difference Between Cyclohexane and Hexane
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Cyclohexane and hexane are both organic compounds belonging to the category of hydrocarbons, which means they are composed solely of carbon and hydrogen atoms. Cyclohexane is characterized by its closed-ring structure comprising six carbon atoms, connected in a hexagonal shape. Hexane, contrastingly, has a linear structure with its six carbon atoms arranged in a straight chain.
The physical properties of cyclohexane and hexane differ because of their distinct molecular structures. For instance, cyclohexane has a slightly higher boiling point than hexane due to the ring structure introducing different intermolecular forces. The structural dissimilarity also means that cyclohexane lacks the terminal methyl groups present in hexane.
In terms of chemical reactivity, cyclohexane and hexane also showcase differences. Cyclohexane, with its cyclic structure, can undergo reactions that open its ring, such as ring-opening reactions. Hexane, being an alkane, primarily undergoes combustion and substitution reactions. Its linear structure doesn't allow for ring-based chemical behaviors like cyclohexane.
Applications of cyclohexane and hexane in industries vary. Cyclohexane is prominently used as a precursor to produce nylon, while hexane finds its primary use as a solvent in laboratories and in the extraction of oils from seeds, especially soybean.
Comparison Chart
Molecular Structure
Cyclic, ring-shaped with six carbons
Linear, straight-chain with six carbons
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Boiling Point
Slightly higher due to ring structure
Lower due to linear structure
Terminal Groups
Lacks terminal methyl groups
Has terminal methyl groups
Main Chemical Reactions
Ring-opening reactions
Combustion and substitution reactions
Primary Industrial Use
Precursor for nylon production
Solvent and for oil extraction
Compare with Definitions
Cyclohexane
A hexagonal cyclic structure with single bonds between carbons.
Cyclohexane is a common solvent used in organic synthesis.
Hexane
A straight-chain alkane with six carbon atoms.
Hexane is frequently used to extract edible oils from seeds.
Cyclohexane
A cyclic hydrocarbon with a ring of six carbon atoms.
Cyclohexane is often used as a nonpolar solvent in laboratories.
Hexane
A volatile, colorless liquid at room temperature.
Due to its low boiling point, hexane is used in quick-drying glues.
Cyclohexane
A colorless, flammable liquid hydrocarbon.
The smell of cyclohexane is reminiscent of petroleum.
Hexane
An organic solvent for fats, oils, and varnishes.
Hexane's nonpolar nature makes it effective in removing grease stains.
Cyclohexane
A compound with the molecular formula C6H12.
When combusted, cyclohexane produces carbon dioxide and water.
Hexane
A hydrocarbon with the molecular formula C6H14.
Hexane evaporates quickly when exposed to air.
Cyclohexane
A saturated carbon ring compound.
The chair conformation is a common structural form of cyclohexane.
Hexane
Hexane () is an organic compound, a straight-chain alkane with six carbon atoms and has the molecular formula C6H14. Hexane is a significant constituent of gasoline.
Cyclohexane
Cyclohexane is a cycloalkane with the molecular formula C6H12. Cyclohexane is non-polar.
Hexane
A colourless liquid hydrocarbon of the alkane series, present in petroleum spirit.
Cyclohexane
A colourless flammable liquid cycloalkane obtained from petroleum or by hydrogenating benzene, and used as a solvent and paint remover.
Hexane
Any of several isomeric colorless flammable liquid hydrocarbons, C6H14, derived from the fractional distillation of petroleum and used as a solvent and as a working fluid in low-temperature thermometers.
Cyclohexane
A flammable, colorless, mobile liquid cycloalkane, C6H12, obtained from petroleum and benzene and used in the manufacture of nylon and as a solvent, a paint remover, and a varnish remover.
Hexane
(organic compound) Any of five isomeric aliphatic hydrocarbons, C6H14. They are colorless, volatile liquids.
Cyclohexane
(organic compound) An alicyclic hydrocarbon, C6H12, consisting of a ring of six carbon atoms; a volatile liquid.
Hexane
Any one of five hydrocarbons, C6H14, of the paraffin series. They are colorless, volatile liquids, and are so called because the molecule has six carbon atoms.
Hexane
A colorless flammable liquid alkane derived from petroleum and used as a solvent
Hexane
A compound with limited reactivity but combustible nature.
Hexane burns readily, producing a clean flame.
Common Curiosities
Are cyclohexane and hexane isomers?
Yes, they are structural isomers with the same molecular formula but different arrangements.
Why is hexane used in oil extraction?
Hexane's nonpolar nature and high volatility make it efficient for oil extraction.
What kind of hydrocarbon is cyclohexane?
Cyclohexane is a cyclic saturated hydrocarbon.
Is hexane linear or branched?
Hexane is a linear hydrocarbon.
Does cyclohexane have double bonds?
No, cyclohexane consists solely of single bonds.
What is the primary industrial use of cyclohexane?
Cyclohexane is mainly used as a precursor for nylon production.
Is hexane soluble in water?
No, hexane is immiscible with water.
How many carbon atoms are in hexane?
Hexane contains six carbon atoms.
Is hexane a good solvent for polar compounds?
No, hexane is nonpolar and is better suited for nonpolar compounds.
Which has a higher boiling point, cyclohexane or hexane?
Cyclohexane has a slightly higher boiling point than hexane.
Are both cyclohexane and hexane liquids at room temperature?
Yes, both compounds are colorless liquids at room temperature.
Which is more flammable, cyclohexane or hexane?
Both are highly flammable, but hexane's lower boiling point makes it more volatile.
Can cyclohexane undergo ring-opening reactions?
Yes, cyclohexane can engage in ring-opening reactions.
What is the natural source of cyclohexane?
Cyclohexane is not typically found in nature but is synthesized from petrochemicals.
Do cyclohexane and hexane mix with each other?
Yes, since both are nonpolar, they are miscible with each other.
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Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
