1. Module 5

1.19. Page 4

Module 5 Lesson 4

Module 5—Hydrocarbons and the Petroleum Industry

Lesson Summary


In Lesson 4 you considered the following questions:

  • What are aromatic compounds?
  • How do aromatic compounds differ from other hydrocarbons?
  • Why are there safety concerns associated with some aromatic compounds?

Benzene and other aromatic compounds are naturally occurring compounds that possess a similar chemical structure, the benzene ring. As you have learned in this lesson, the benzene ring is a unique chemical structure that gives this class of compounds unique chemical properties.

 

There are significant health concerns associated with some aromatic compounds, some of which are restricted or have to be used with appropriate caution. Some common substances, such as Aspirin (a pain reliever) and vanillin (a flavouring agent), are aromatic compounds.

 

Lesson Glossary

 

aromatics: a class of hydrocarbons in which all hydrocarbons contain benzene or a benzene-like ring

 

bioremediation: a process that uses natural mechanisms, including bacteria and fungi, to remove toxic materials from soil or water