Alkanes and Alkenes

Question 1

what is a homologous series (3 factors)

Answer 1

a series of compounds:
- where the molecular formula differs by CH2
- has a gradual variation in physical properties such as boiling points
- have similar chemical properties

Question 2

what are the first 4 alkanes?

Answer 2

methane, ethane, propane, butane

Question 3

what is the general formula for alkanes?

Answer 3

CnH2n+2

Question 4

which homologous series is saturated - alkanes or alkenes, and why

Answer 4

alkanes - do not contain any double bonds

Question 5

what are alkenes

Answer 5

a homologous series of unsaturated hydrocarbons

Question 6

what is the general formula for alkenes?

Answer 6

CnH2n

Question 7

what is the functional group in alkenes?

Answer 7

C=C

Question 8

what is the test for alkenes and how does it work

Answer 8

add bromine water(orange) to the solution, if the solution turns colourless alkenes are present.
- this is because alkenes are unsaturated and the double bond breaks to react with the bromine

Question 9

what is an isomer?

Answer 9

compounds with the same molecular formula but different structures