Question

 Differentiate between alkanes and alkenes. Name and draw the structure of one member of each. 

Answer 1

(a) Alkanes: These are the simplest hydrocarbons having general formula C_nH_2n+2, where n is the number of atoms. These compounds contain all single covalent bonds between the carbon atoms. Suffix-ane is used while naming alkanes.

For e.g. C₂H₆

Alkenes: These are the simplest unsaturated hydrocarbons having general formula C_nH₂n, where n is the number of atoms. These compounds contain at least one double bond between the carbon atoms. Suffix, -ene is used while naming alkenes.

For e.g. C₂H₄