Alkanes are a type of hydrocarbon that contain only single bonds between carbon atoms. They are also called saturated hydrocarbons because all the carbon atoms have the maximum number of hydrogen atoms attached.
Key Features of Alkanes
- Single bonds only: No double or triple bonds.
- Saturated: Each carbon is bonded to as many hydrogens as possible.
- General structure: They can be straight-chain, branched-chain, or cyclic.
- Relatively unreactive: Because single bonds are strong, alkanes are less reactive than alkenes or alkynes.
- Combustible: Alkanes burn easily and are used as fuels.
Examples of Alkanes
- Methane – the simplest alkane
- Ethane
- Propane
- Butane
- Cyclohexane – a cyclic alkane
In short:
Alkanes are saturated hydrocarbons with only single bonds, stable in nature, and commonly found in fuels like natural gas and gasoline.