Acetylene

Acetylene, or ethyne (C₂H₂), colorless gas that explodes on contact with air. Acetylene and oxygen are mixed and burned in the oxyacetylene torch, producing an extremely hot flame (up to 6,300°F/3,480°C) used for welding and cutting metals. Acetylene, used to make plastics, rubber, and explosive compounds, is poisonous if inhaled.

See also: Acetone; Calcium carbide.