What Is Isopentane?
Isopentane is a structural isomer of pentane. Its chemical formula is C5H12 and it is also called 2-methylbutane. At room temperature and pressure, it is a colorless liquid and volatile.
Uses of Isopentane
Isopentane is used as a slow-acting foaming agent because of its boiling point, which is around room to body temperature. Examples include shaving foam and foaming cooling sprays. However, caution should be exercised in its use because of the possibility of ignition accidents that may occur if the spraying time is prolonged.
It may also be added to cold weather gasoline and used to facilitate starting of gasoline engines. In the laboratory, isopentane is used as a refrigerant when mixed with liquid nitrogen or propane.