Alkanes

High School

Definition

Saturated hydrocarbons that contain only single carbon–carbon bonds, with the general formula CₙH₂ₙ₊₂. They are relatively unreactive and include common fuels such as methane, propane, and butane.

Worked examples

\(\)CH\(_4\) (methane), \(\)C\(_3\)H\(_8\) (propane), \(\)C\(_4\)H\(_{10}\) (butane)

Each follows \(\)C\(_n\)H\(_{2n+2}\): methane has 1 carbon and 4 hydrogens, propane has 3 carbons and 8 hydrogens.

Ethane \(\)C\(_2\)H\(_6\) has the structure H₃C–CH₃ with only single bonds.

All carbon–carbon bonds are single; the molecule is saturated with hydrogen atoms.

Common mistakes

\(\)C\(_4\)H\(_8\) is an alkane → \(\)C\(_4\)H\(_{10}\) (butane) is the alkane; \(\)C\(_4\)H\(_8\) is an alkene Alkanes must fit \(\)C\(_n\)H\(_{2n+2}\); fewer hydrogens means double bonds are present.
Alkanes are highly reactive because they contain carbon → Alkanes are relatively unreactive due to strong C–C and C–H single bonds Saturated hydrocarbons lack reactive double bonds, making them stable and less reactive.
Propane is \(\)C\(_3\)H\(_6\) → Propane is \(\)C\(_3\)H\(_8\) Apply the formula: for \(n = 3\), \(2n + 2 = 8\) hydrogens.

Where you'll use it next

You'll use alkanes when studying organic chemistry nomenclature, combustion reactions, and energy sources. They are foundational for understanding alkenes, alkynes, and functional groups in advanced chemistry.

Found in 1 StudyPug lesson

Alkanes: The Building Blocks of Organic Chemistry

Chemistry 11

Dive into the world of alkanes, the simplest organic compounds. Explore their structures, formulas, and naming conventions. Gain essential knowledge for advanced organic chemistry concepts and real-world applications.

11th Grade11th