An alkene is an unsaturated hydrocarbon containing at least one carbon-carbon double bond. This double bond renders alkenes more reactive than alkanes due to the presence of pi electrons. Alkenes are typically represented by the general formula CnH2n (for non-cyclic structures) and form the basis for many important industrial polymers and chemicals. The presence of the double bond also gives alkenes the potential for geometric isomerism (cis/trans or E/Z) and addition reactions. The properties of an alkene are determined by both the carbon chain length and the position of the double bond.
Alkene meaning with examples
- Ethene (ethylene), the simplest alkene, is a crucial industrial feedstock used to produce polyethylene, a common plastic. It's generated via the cracking of crude oil.
- Propene (propylene) is another important alkene. It's used to make polypropylene, another widely used plastic, in addition to various other organic chemicals and solvents.
- Butene isomers are used in the production of synthetic rubber. They are commonly used in the creation of various polymers used within industries like textiles, packaging, and adhesives.
- Cycloalkenes, like cyclopentene, are cyclic alkenes found in various natural products. These are essential intermediates in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and other complex organic molecules.
- An understanding of alkene reactivity is fundamental to organic chemistry. Reactions such as the addition of hydrogen, halogens, or water allow for the manipulation of alkene molecules to yield useful products.
Alkene Crossword Answers
6 Letters
OLEFIN
7 Letters
OLEFINE