What are Alkanes? (Edexcel IGCSE Chemistry (Modular))
Revision Note
Written by: Stewart Hird
Reviewed by: Lucy Kirkham
Alkanes
What are alkanes?
Alkanes are a group of saturated hydrocarbons
The term saturated means that they only have single carbon-carbon bonds, there are no double bonds
The general formula of the alkanes is CnH2n+2
Alkanes are generally unreactive compounds but they do undergo combustion reactions, can be cracked into smaller molecules and can react with halogens in the presence of light
Methane is an alkane and is the major component of natural gas
Table of alkanes
Displayed formula | Name | Molecular formula |
|---|---|---|
 | methane | CH4 |
 | ethane | C2H6 |
 | propane | C3H8 |
 | butane | C4H10 |
 | pentane | C5H12 |
The first five members of the alkane homologous series
Examiner Tips and Tricks
For your exam, you need to be able to name, draw and give the appropriate formula for the first five alkanes.
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