Properties of alkanes

Question 1

covalent

General structure of alkanes

Answer 1

• saturated hydrocarbons
• containing only carbon and hydrogen bonds
• joined together by single covalent bonds

Question 2

Whats the type of covalent bond in alkanes and define it

Answer 2

• Sigma bonds
• This bond is a result of 2 orbitals overlapping FROM EACH BONDING ATOM

Question 3

what is the shape

How are the shapes of alkanes formed

Answer 3

• each carbon atom is surrounded by pairs of electrons
• There is repultion between these pairs
• forming a 3D tetrahedral structure
• angle 109.5

Question 4

How does the length of the chain effect B.P?

Answer 4

1. • B.P increases as the chain increases
2. • As chain increases the molecules have a greater surface area
     3 * more surface contact between molecules
     * Stronger london forces
     * more energy required to break these bonds

Question 5

How does branching effect B.P?

Answer 5

1. more brancing=lower b.p
2. less branching=higher b.p
3. fewer surface points of contact between molecules
4. fewer london forces
5. less energy required to break bonds