Alkanes - GCSE Chemistry Definition

Alkanes are a group of hydrocarbons that contain only single bonds between the carbon atoms, forming a saturated molecule. They follow the general chemical formula C_nH_2n+2, where 'n' is the number of carbon atoms. Alkanes are part of the homologous series and include methane, ethane, propane, and butane, among others.

Key examples of alkanes include:

• methane (CH₄)

• ethane (C₂H₆)

• propane (C₃H₈)

These compounds are often found in natural gas and petroleum and have strong C-H bonds, making them relatively unreactive. As simple hydrocarbons, they are used primarily as fuels due to their ability to release energy when burned, a concept which is important in understanding combustion processes in GCSE Chemistry.