butane

American  

[byoo-teyn, byoo-teyn] / ˈbyu teɪn, byuˈteɪn /

noun

Chemistry.

1. a colorless, flammable gas, C 4 H 10 , a saturated aliphatic existing in two isomeric forms: used chiefly in the manufacture of rubber and as fuel.

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butane British  

/ bjuːˈteɪn, ˈbjuːteɪn /

noun

1. a colourless flammable gaseous alkane that exists in two isomeric forms, both of which occur in natural gas. The stable isomer, n -butane, is used mainly in the manufacture of rubber and fuels (such as Calor Gas). Formula: C 4 H 10

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butane Scientific  

/ byo̅o̅′tān′ /

1. An organic compound found in natural gas and produced from petroleum. Butane is used as a household fuel, refrigerant, and propellant in aerosol cans. It is the fourth member of the alkane series. Chemical formula: C ₄ H ₁₀ .

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Etymology

Origin of butane

First recorded in 1870–75; but(yl) + -ane

Example Sentences

One important element of the redevelopment plan, McOsker said, is the removal of liquid butane tanks just south of the refinery on Gaffey Street.

From Los Angeles Times

Cordless hair styling tools, with the specific battery, gas or butane fuel, are only allowed in carry-on bags due to their combustible nature, according to a TSA spokesperson.

From Los Angeles Times

The blast was caused by a build-up of the highly flammable butane, the gas used in the production process, which was taking place while the neighbours all slept peacefully nearby.

From BBC

The gas entering the LNG facility is composed primarily of methane, but it also contains small amounts of ethane, propane, butane and other hydrocarbons collectively referred to as volatile organic compounds.

From Seattle Times

Duncan said a truckload of butane canisters had arrived within the past week at the building and more than half of that stock was still on site when the fire began.

From Seattle Times