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.