Alkanes

Alkanes are saturated hydrocarbons, meaning they consist only of single bonds between carbon atoms and hydrogen atoms. They form a homologous series, meaning they share the same general formula (CnH2n+2) and exhibit similar chemical properties. The simplest alkane is methane (CH4), and they increase in complexity and boiling point with increasing carbon chain length. Alkanes are generally nonpolar, meaning they don't readily dissolve in water. They are primarily used as fuels and solvents. They participate in combustion reactions, producing heat and energy. Their stability arises from the strong carbon-carbon and carbon-hydrogen bonds.

Alkanes meaning with examples

• Methane, the simplest alkane (CH4), is a primary component of natural gas. It's used for heating and cooking, and is a significant greenhouse gas contributing to global warming. It is abundant in wetlands, marshes, and beneath the ocean floor.
• Ethane (C2H6), another alkane, is extracted from natural gas and used in the petrochemical industry. Ethane is cracked to produce ethylene (C2H4), which is an important starting material for plastics production. It is also found in some oil wells.
• Propane (C3H8) is a common fuel used in portable stoves, barbecues, and heating systems. It is easily stored in pressurized tanks and is transported widely. It is often produced from the processing of natural gas and crude oil.
• Butane (C4H10) is used as a fuel in cigarette lighters and in the production of synthetic rubber. It is also used as a propellant in aerosols, giving them a consistent spray. Its use is limited for some applications.
• Pentane (C5H12) is often used as a solvent and a propellant. In lab experiments, it dissolves grease and oil effectively. Pentane is more complex than butane, but has many useful properties for the modern world.