Butene is a type of hydrocarbon that belongs to the alkene family, characterized by having at least one carbon-carbon double bond. Its chemical formula is C₄H₈, and it exists in several isomeric forms, including 1-butene, 2-butene, and isobutene. Butene is commonly used in the production of plastics, synthetic rubber, and other chemicals. This compound is typically produced during the refining of crude oil and through the cracking of larger hydrocarbons. Butene plays a significant role in the petrochemical industry, serving as a building block for various materials and contributing to the production of polyethylene and polypropylene.