Are alkanes saturated or unsaturated?

Unlock all questions

This demo includes only 20 questions. Upgrade to access hundreds of questions, flashcards, exam simulations, and disable ads.

Full question bankExam simulationsFlashcards
From $24.99Unlock all

Study for the IGCSE Edexcel Chemistry Test. Access flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

Are alkanes saturated or unsaturated?

Explanation:
Saturated means a molecule has the maximum possible hydrogens for its carbon framework, with only single bonds between carbon atoms. Alkanes fit this, since every carbon is bonded by single bonds to other carbons and to hydrogens, giving the general formula CnH2n+2. There are no carbon–carbon double or triple bonds, so they can’t have fewer hydrogens than this maximum. If a molecule had a C=C bond or a C≡C bond, or a ring with pi bonds, it would be unsaturated. Aromatic rings also involve pi bonds, so they aren’t saturated either. Therefore, alkanes are saturated.

Saturated means a molecule has the maximum possible hydrogens for its carbon framework, with only single bonds between carbon atoms. Alkanes fit this, since every carbon is bonded by single bonds to other carbons and to hydrogens, giving the general formula CnH2n+2. There are no carbon–carbon double or triple bonds, so they can’t have fewer hydrogens than this maximum. If a molecule had a C=C bond or a C≡C bond, or a ring with pi bonds, it would be unsaturated. Aromatic rings also involve pi bonds, so they aren’t saturated either. Therefore, alkanes are saturated.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy