4.5.2 Alkanes Flashcards
What is the general formula of an alkane?
CnH2n+2
What is the formula of methane?
CH4
What is the formula of ethane?
C2H6
What is the formula of propane?
C3H8
What is the formula of butane?
C4H10
What is the formula of pentane?
C5H12
What type of bonds hold alkanes together?
Covalent bonds
What is the displayed formula?
A diagram showing the positions of every atom and every bond.
What is the structural formula?
Shows the structure of the molecule in one line, read left to right.
e.g. the structural formula of butane is CH3CH2CH2CH3
What is the molecular formula?
This only shows how many of each atom there are.
What is the empirical formula?
This only shows the simplest whole number ratio of atoms.
What is a homologous series?
A family of molecules that have similar chemical reactions, trends in physical properties and the same general formula.
What are isomers?
Isomers are molecules with the same molecular formula but different structural formulae.
Why are most alkanes used as fuels?
Most alkanes are used as fuels because they release a lot of energy when combusted.
When does complete combustion occur?
When there is excess oxygen.