Properties of hydrocarbons

Question 1

A hydrocarbon’s size affects its properties. A hydrocarbon’s properties affect how useful it is as a fuel. The most important properties are:

Question 2

Boiling point

Answer 2

Hydrocarbons with longer chains have higher boiling points.

Question 3

Flammability

Answer 3

Hydrocarbons with longer chains are less flammable.

Question 4

Viscosity

Answer 4

Hydrocarbons with longer chains have higher viscosity (i.e. they are thicker and flow less easily).

Question 5

The size of a hydrocarbon affects certain properties, such as its boiling point, viscosity and flammability

Question 6

Burning Hydrocarbons

Answer 6

The equations for the combustion (burning) of hydrocarbons depend on the amount of oxygen that is available.

Question 7

Burning with a lack of oxygen

Answer 7

If alkanes are burned without enough oxygen, then carbon monoxide can be created:
2C + O2 → 2CO.
Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless, toxic gas.

Question 8

Burning with plenty of oxygen

Answer 8

The combustion (burning) of hydrocarbons when there is a good air supply involve:
Energy release.
The oxidation of carbon and hydrogen to create carbon dioxide and water.

Question 9

Name 3 properties of carbon monoxide

Answer 9

colourless
odourless
toxic gas

Question 10

The balanced equation for the complete combustion of ethane is:

Answer 10

2C(2)H6 + 7O(2) →4CO(2) + H(2)O