The Basics of Alkanes: Properties, Uses and Reactivity

Alkanes

– First four alkanes are methane (CH4), Ethane (C2H6), Propane (C3H8), and Butane (C4H10)- single Bonded

Alkanes are a class of organic compounds that are made up of only carbon and hydrogen atoms, and they are also called saturated hydrocarbons. The general molecular formula for an alkane is CnH2n+2. Alkanes are characterized by their single covalent bonds between carbon atoms and hydrogen atoms.

Alkanes are commonly found in petroleum and natural gas, and they have a range of uses. They can be used as fuels, including gasoline, diesel fuel, and propane. Additionally, they are used as lubricants, solvents, and raw materials in the production of chemicals.

The physical properties of alkanes depend on the number of carbon atoms present in the molecule. The boiling points of alkanes generally increase as the number of carbon atoms in the molecule increase. This is due to the larger surface area and increased strength of intermolecular forces of attraction among the larger molecules. Alkanes with smaller molecules are gases at room temperature, while those with larger molecules are liquids or solids.

In terms of reactions, alkanes are relatively unreactive. They can undergo combustion reactions in the presence of oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water. They can also undergo halogenation reactions in the presence of halogens such as chlorine or bromine to produce alkyl halides. Due to their lack of reactivity, alkanes must first undergo activation before they can react with other compounds.

In summary, alkanes are an important class of organic compounds used as fuels, lubricants, and solvents. They have a range of physical and chemical properties, and they are relatively unreactive due to their strong carbon-hydrogen bonds.

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