Ethylene (C2H4)

Ethylene (C2H4) is a simple organic molecule composed of two carbon atoms linked by a double bond, with each carbon bonded to two hydrogen atoms. It is a colorless, gaseous hydrocarbon that acts as a plant hormone, regulating growth, ripening fruit, and developing flowers. Industrially, ethylene is produced mainly through the cracking of hydrocarbons and serves as a foundational building block in manufacturing plastics like polyethylene. Its versatility makes it vital in agriculture, food storage, and chemical industries, highlighting its importance in both natural processes and industrial applications.