When bromine water (a solution of bromine in water) is added to ethene (also known as ethylene, a hydrocarbon with the chemical formula C2H4), a reaction occurs. Bromine water is commonly used as a test for unsaturation in organic compounds. Ethene, being an unsaturated hydrocarbon, readily reacts with bromine water.
The reaction between bromine water and ethene is an example of an addition reaction. The bromine molecule (Br2) adds across the double bond of ethene, resulting in the formation of a dibromo compound. The specific product formed in this case is 1,2-dibromoethane (C2H4Br2), where two bromine atoms are added across the double bond of ethene.
The reaction can be represented by the following balanced chemical equation:
C2H4 + Br2 -> C2H4Br2
In terms of the results, when bromine water is added to ethene, the initial orange-brown color of bromine water will fade as the reaction takes place. The solution will turn colorless or light yellowish, indicating the consumption of bromine.
It's important to note that handling bromine and bromine water can be hazardous. These chemicals are toxic and can cause severe burns and respiratory issues. Proper safety precautions and expertise are necessary when working with bromine or bromine-containing compounds.