In a typical cylinder, acetylene is dissolved in which chemical to allow greater volumes and pressures?

Acetylene is dissolved in acetone in a typical cylinder to facilitate safe storage and transport under high pressure. Acetylene is a highly volatile and flammable gas that is not stable in its pure form at pressures above 15 psi. To prevent it from separating into a gas and liquid phase and to minimize the risk of explosion, it is mixed with acetone, which absorbs the gas. This solution allows for greater volumes of acetylene to be stored at higher pressures in a storage cylinder while maintaining stability and safety.

Using other substances, such as water, ethylene glycol, or ethanol, would not provide the same benefits in terms of solubility and safety. Water, for instance, can lead to formation of dangerous situations due to the potential for forming acetylene hydrate. Ethylene glycol and ethanol do not have the same chemical properties that allow for effective dissolution and stabilization when it comes to acetylene under pressure. Thus, acetone remains the suitable choice for this application.