Aliphatic hydrocarbons behave differently in the environment depending on their size. WATER: Light
aliphatics volatilise rapidly from water (half life - few hours). Bioconcentration should not be
significant. SOIL: Light aliphatics biodegrade quickly in soil and water, heavy aliphatics biodegrade
very slowly. ATMOSPHERE: Vapour-phase aliphatics will degrade by reaction with hydroxyl radicals.