Describe what is meant by the terms silane and silanol. What is their role in the preparation of silicones?

Short Answer

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Silane is a saturated compound of silicon and hydrogen, and silanol is a group in silicon chemistry with connectivity Si-O-H. Both play a significant role in the production of silicones; Silane is first chlorinated to produce silicon tetrachloride and then hydrolyzed to form silanols. The resulting silanols undergo condensation reactions to form the siloxane bonds characteristic of silicones.

Step by step solution

01

Defining Silane

Silane refers to any compound containing a single bonded, saturated compound of silicon and hydrogen, with a general formula of \(SiH_4\). The term 'silane' specifically refers to \(SiH_4\), the silicon analog of methane, although it's used to refer to any compound composed of silicon and hydrogen atoms.
02

Defining Silanol

A silanol is a functional group in silicon chemistry with the connectivity Si-O-H. It is similar to the hydroxy group (-OH) seen in alcohols. Just like silanes, silanols also play a significant role in silicone chemistry.
03

Role of Silane and Silanol in Silicone Production

Silicone is synthesized from silane through a series of reactions. Initially, silane is reacted with chlorine to produce silicon tetrachloride, followed by hydrolysis, which results in the formation of silanols. The silanols, through condensation reactions, lose water and form siloxane bonds (-Si-O-Si-), central to the structure of silicones. Hence, both silane and silanol play vital roles in the creation of silicones.

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