1. Lower members of the family are used as fuels and illuminants.
2. Alkenes and substituted alkenes upon polymerization form a number of useful polymers such as polythene, PVC, Teflon, orlon, etc.,
3. Ethene is employed for preparation of ethyl alcohol and ethylene glycol (anti-freeze).
4. Ethylene is used for artificial ripening of green fruits.
5. Ethylene also used in oxygen-ethylene flame for cutting and welding of metals.
