Hydrocarbons Flashcards
What are hydrocarbons?
Any compound formed from carbon and hydrogen atoms only
What is the general formula for alkanes?
CnH2n+2
What are alkanes?
•alkanes are saturated hydrocarbons meaning each carbon atom forms four single covalent bonds
•the alkanes are a homologous series meaning they are a group of organic compounds that react in a similar way
What are the first 4 alkanes?
Methane, ethane,propane and butane
What is the formula for methane?
CH4
What is the formula for ethane?
C2H6
What is the formula for propane?
C3H8
What is the formula for butane?
C4H10
What impacts the properties of hydrocarbons?
The length of the carbon chain
The shorter the carbon chain of a hydrocarbon the ……. it is
-less viscous (more runny)
-more volatile (lower boiling point)
-more flammable (easier to ignite)
•these properties make them good fuels
Why are hydrocarbons with shorter carbon chains better as fuels?
They are easier to ignite/ are more flammable
What reaction occurs during the complete combustion of hydrocarbons?
•hydrocarbon + oxygen—> carbon dioxide + water
•during this reaction both hydrogen and carbon from the hydrocarbon are oxidised
What reaction occurs during the incomplete combustion of hydrocarbons?
Hydrocarbon+oxygen—> carbon monoxide + water + carbon
When does complete combustion occur?
When there is a good supply of oxygen
When does incomplete combustion occur?
When there is a poor supply of oxygen