Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
Which of the following compounds is an example of an alkane?
A
Ethene
B
Methane
C
Benzene
D
Ethyne
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the definition of an alkane: Alkanes are saturated hydrocarbons, meaning they only contain single bonds between carbon atoms and have the general formula CnH2n+2.
Identify the structure of each compound: Ethene (C2H4) is an alkene with a double bond, Benzene (C6H6) is an aromatic compound with alternating double bonds, Ethyne (C2H2) is an alkyne with a triple bond, and Methane (CH4) is an alkane with single bonds only.
Compare each compound's structure to the alkane definition: Methane fits the criteria of an alkane as it has only single bonds and follows the formula CnH2n+2.
Recognize that alkanes are characterized by their lack of double or triple bonds, which distinguishes them from alkenes, alkynes, and aromatic compounds.
Conclude that Methane is the correct example of an alkane among the given options, as it is the only compound that meets the structural requirements of an alkane.