Why do acetylene cylinders contain acetone?

Acetylene cylinders contain acetone to dissolve acetylene gas in liquid form. Acetylene is naturally a gas at room temperature and pressure, but when it is stored under high pressure in a cylinder, it has the potential to become unstable. By dissolving acetylene in acetone, the gas is converted into a safer, more manageable liquid state, allowing for a higher concentration of acetylene to be stored without the risks associated with high pressures of pure gas. This method also helps maintain a consistent pressure within the cylinder which is essential for effective and safe usage.

The other options do not accurately reflect the primary purpose of acetone in acetylene cylinders. While enhancing flame quality or stabilizing gas pressure are relevant factors in using acetylene, they do not capture the fundamental reason for the presence of acetone, which is primarily for safe storage and handling of acetylene gas.