Question

What would be the general formula for the molecular formulae of the members of the homologous series of alkanes? What would be the value of ‘n’ for the first member of this series?

Answer 1

The general formula for the homologous series of alkanes is C_nH_2n+2. For the first member of this series, the value of n = 1. Substituting this value into the formula:

C_nH_2n+2 = C₁H_2×1 + 2 = CH₄

Therefore, the first alkane is methane (CH₄).