Cracking hydrocarbons

Question 1

cracking

Answer 1

• Splitting up long-chain hydrocarbons
• form of thermal decomposition: breaking molecules down into simpler molecules using heat

Question 2

hydrocarbons

Answer 2

• Long - high boiling points, viscous (thick and gloopy)
• short - lower boiling points, thinner and paler in colour

Question 3

Conditions

Answer 3

• vapourised hydrocarbons
• powdered catalyst (silica)
• 600-700 degrees

Question 4

products

Answer 4

• small alkanes at end of test tube
• alkenes in a gas jar (bubbled through water)