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Multiple Choice
Which statement is incorrect about alkanes?
A
Alkanes have the general formula CnH2n+2.
B
Alkanes are saturated hydrocarbons.
C
Alkanes are generally nonpolar molecules.
D
Alkanes can form hydrogen bonds with water.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the general properties of alkanes: Alkanes are hydrocarbons with only single bonds between carbon atoms, making them saturated hydrocarbons. Their general formula is CnH2n+2.
Recognize that alkanes are nonpolar molecules: Due to the similar electronegativities of carbon and hydrogen, the C-H bonds in alkanes are nonpolar, resulting in the overall nonpolarity of the molecule.
Consider the nature of hydrogen bonding: Hydrogen bonds typically occur between a hydrogen atom covalently bonded to a highly electronegative atom (like oxygen, nitrogen, or fluorine) and another electronegative atom.
Analyze the interaction of alkanes with water: Water is a polar molecule capable of hydrogen bonding. Since alkanes are nonpolar and lack the necessary electronegative atoms, they cannot form hydrogen bonds with water.
Identify the incorrect statement: Based on the analysis, the statement 'Alkanes can form hydrogen bonds with water' is incorrect because alkanes do not have the ability to engage in hydrogen bonding due to their nonpolar nature.