Textbook Question
Determine the relationship between each of the pairs of the following compounds. Are they structural isomers (different molecules), conformational isomers (the same molecule), or not related?
(b)
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13. Alkenes, Alkynes, and Aromatic Compounds
Isomers
3:06 minutesProblem 45
Textbook Question
Alkanes are also referred to as saturated hydrocarbons. Explain the meaning of the term hydrocarbon. Why are alkanes called saturated hydrocarbons?
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The term 'hydrocarbon' refers to organic compounds that are composed entirely of carbon (C) and hydrogen (H) atoms. These compounds form the basis of organic chemistry and can exist in various structures such as chains, rings, or branched forms.
Alkanes are a specific type of hydrocarbon that contain only single bonds between carbon atoms. This means that each carbon atom is bonded to the maximum possible number of hydrogen atoms, making them 'saturated.'
The term 'saturated' in this context means that the carbon atoms are fully bonded with hydrogen atoms and there are no double or triple bonds present in the molecule.
The general formula for alkanes is CnH2n+2, where 'n' represents the number of carbon atoms. This formula reflects the maximum number of hydrogen atoms that can bond to a given number of carbon atoms in a single-bonded structure.
In summary, alkanes are called saturated hydrocarbons because they consist only of carbon and hydrogen atoms, and their carbon atoms are fully saturated with hydrogen due to the presence of only single bonds.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Hydrocarbon
A hydrocarbon is a chemical compound composed exclusively of hydrogen and carbon atoms. These compounds can be found in various forms, including alkanes, alkenes, and alkynes, which differ based on the types of bonds between carbon atoms. Hydrocarbons are fundamental to organic chemistry and are the primary constituents of fossil fuels, making them crucial for energy production.
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Saturated Hydrocarbons
Saturated hydrocarbons, also known as alkanes, are hydrocarbons in which all carbon-carbon bonds are single bonds. This saturation means that each carbon atom is bonded to the maximum number of hydrogen atoms possible, resulting in a stable structure. The general formula for saturated hydrocarbons is CnH2n+2, where 'n' represents the number of carbon atoms.
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Alkanes
Alkanes are a specific class of saturated hydrocarbons characterized by their single bonds between carbon atoms. They are the simplest type of hydrocarbons and include compounds such as methane, ethane, and propane. Alkanes are typically less reactive than other types of hydrocarbons, making them useful as fuels and in various chemical applications.
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