Acetylene
Acetylene is a simple unsaturated hydrocarbon and the smallest member of the alkyne family. Its molecule consists of two carbon atoms connected by a triple bond (C≡C) and each bonded to a single hydrogen atom. Within the Continuum Universes, it is the baseline hydrocarbon gas from which more complex organic and psionically modified compounds are measured.
Chemical and Physical Properties
Acetylene (systematic name: ethyne) is linear and symmetric, with sp-hybridized carbon atoms. The triple bond gives it extraordinary bond energy and reactivity. It burns in oxygen with a **luminous, high-temperature flame** (~3300 °C), making it ideal for welding and for industrial synthesis of other hydrocarbons.
In the Continuum’s cryogenic worlds such as Methal-Nitric Atmosphere, acetylene acts as a key building block in photochemical tholin formation, eventually leading to complex organic polymers.
Behavior in Atmospheric Systems
- **Phase:** Gaseous under most natural planetary conditions; condenses only under cryogenic pressure.
- **Photochemistry:** Under ultraviolet exposure, polymerizes into heavier hydrocarbons and tar-like aerosols.
- **Combustion:** Combines explosively with oxygen, producing carbon dioxide, water, and radiant heat.
- **Solubility:** Highly soluble in organic solvents; sparingly soluble in water.
Presence in the Continuum
Acetylene has been observed spectroscopically on multiple Continuum gas giants and cryogenic moons, including Karthan and Tholum-VI. In these environments, it plays a central role in the slow synthesis of organic aerosols, particularly within Methal-Nitric Atmosphere class worlds.
In the Grand Archive’s classification system, it is designated a **Type-1 Carbon Precursor**, meaning it appears naturally in non-biological environments but can feed into biochemical systems.
Safety and Handling
- **Flammable Range:** 2.5–82% in air.
- **Decomposition Risk:** Unstable under pressure above 200 kPa without stabilizers.
- **Storage:** Must be dissolved in acetone within pressurized vessels; otherwise prone to spontaneous polymerization.
- **Human Toxicity:** Low acute toxicity, but displacement of oxygen can cause asphyxiation in confined atmospheres.
Relation to Acetalyne
While Acetalyne is a psionically induced meta-isomer existing only under metaphase resonance, acetylene remains purely molecular. Their spectral signatures are nearly identical, except that acetalyne exhibits anomalous phase luminescence in the 470 nm range. The two are often compared as the “matter and echo” of the same chemical archetype.