ETHYLENE

n. Chem. a gaseous hydrocarbon of the alkene series, occurring in natural gas and used in the manufacture of polythene. Also called ETHENE. °Chem. formula: C[2]H[4]. øethylene glycol Chem. a colourless viscous hygroscopic liquid used as an antifreeze and in the manufacture of polyesters. °Chem. formula: C[2]H[6]O[2].: also called ETHANEDIOL. øøethylenic adj.