Alkanes Flashcards
What is the general formula for alkanes?
CnH2n+2
What are the bond angles in a unbranched alkane?
109.5
What is the general formula for a ring alkane?
CnH2n
What are the intermolecular forces present in alkanes?
non-polar because the electronegativities of carbon and hydrogen are similar
the only intermolecular forces present are van der Waals
the larger the molecule the stronger the van der Waals.
How does boiling point vary with alkanes?
larger molecules - larger van der Waals
therefore boiling points increase a chain length increases.
Branched alkanes have lower melting point because the molecules cannot pack as closely together, therefore the van Der Waals are not as effective
Are alkanes soluble?
they are insoluble in water
because the H-bonds in water are stronger than the van der Waal’s in the alkanes
alkanes do mix with other non-polar liquids.
How do alkanes react?
they are relatively unreactive and the C-C and C-H bonds are relatively strong
they don’t react with acids, bases, or redox agents
they do combust and react with halogens under suitable condition
