Petroleum Chemistry Review Flashcards

Flashcards based on lecture notes for exam review.

What is the general formula for alkynes?

CnH2n-2

What is the distinguishing feature of the alkene structure?

Carbon=Carbon double bond

Alkynes or Alkenes, which one is more undersaturated?

Alkynes, due to the triple bond.

Why might very sour oils be denser than water?

As sulfur contents increase in oil, they make it denser.

What is Sour crude oil?

Crude oil containing a high amount of the impurity sulfur (more than 0.5%).

What is ‘gas sweetening’?

H2S removal in crudes, done with ethanol amines.

Why are mercaptans used as gas detectors?

To make it easier to detect leaks of natural gas as mercaptans have a disagreeable odor.

Name physical characteristics used to estimate the commercial value of a petroleum liquid.

Specific gravity, Gasoline and kerosene content, Sulfur content, Asphalt content, Pour point, Cloud point.

What is the Pour point of fluids?

Lowest temperature at which the liquid is observed to flow when cooled under prescribed conditions.

What is the Cloud point of fluids?

Temperature at which paraffin wax begins to solidify, identified by the onset of turbidity.