Chemical formula (C2H4)

The chemical formula C₂H₄ represents a molecule called ethene or ethylene. It indicates that the molecule consists of two carbon atoms (C₂) and four hydrogen atoms (H₄). These atoms are arranged so that each carbon atom is double-bonded to the other, with the remaining bonds connecting to hydrogen atoms. Ethene is a colorless, flammable gas commonly used in making plastics like polyethylene and involved in plant ripening. The formula provides a quick way to understand the molecule's composition, showing the ratio of atoms without detail of the structure.