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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements about alkanes is not true?
A
Alkanes are saturated hydrocarbons.
B
Alkanes can undergo addition reactions.
C
Alkanes have the general formula CnH2n+2.
D
Alkanes are generally nonpolar molecules.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Begin by understanding the structure of alkanes. Alkanes are saturated hydrocarbons, meaning they contain only single bonds between carbon atoms.
Recognize the general formula for alkanes, which is \( C_nH_{2n+2} \). This formula indicates that for every \( n \) carbon atoms, there are \( 2n+2 \) hydrogen atoms.
Consider the polarity of alkanes. Alkanes are generally nonpolar molecules because the carbon-hydrogen bonds have similar electronegativities, resulting in a lack of significant dipole moments.
Evaluate the types of reactions alkanes can undergo. Alkanes typically do not undergo addition reactions because they lack double or triple bonds, which are necessary for such reactions.
Identify the statement that is not true based on the characteristics of alkanes. Since alkanes do not have double or triple bonds, the statement 'Alkanes can undergo addition reactions' is not true.