Exploring the Properties and Uses of Alkanes: Hydrocarbon Compounds

alkanes

hydrocarbons in which carbon atoms are connected only by single bonds in straight chains or branched chains are called _________

Alkanes are a type of hydrocarbon compound that contain only single covalent bonds between the carbon atoms in their structure. Alkanes are also referred to as paraffins since they are relatively unreactive and have a low tendency to participate in chemical reactions.

The general formula for alkanes is CnH2n+2, where n represents the number of carbon atoms present in the molecule. For example, methane (CH4) is the simplest alkane since it contains one carbon atom, whereas ethane (C2H6) contains two carbon atoms.

Alkanes have several physical properties that are dependent on the number of carbon atoms present in their structure. Small alkanes, such as methane and ethane, are gases at room temperature, while larger alkanes, such as octane (C8H18), are liquids or solids. Alkanes are also insoluble in water and have low boiling and melting points.

Since alkanes are relatively unreactive, they are used as fuels for heating and transportation purposes. Alkanes are also used as starting materials for the synthesis of other compounds in industry. For example, ethylene, which is a starting material for the synthesis of polyethylene (a type of plastic), can be obtained by the dehydrogenation of ethane.

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