MCQ Detailed View

Hydrocarbons are organic compounds made up of only carbon and hydrogen atoms. They are classified into different groups based on the type of bonds between carbon atoms. Aliphatic hydrocarbons are open-chain compounds that may have single, double, or triple bonds.

When the chain contains only single covalent bonds (C–C) between carbon atoms, such hydrocarbons are known as alkanes. Alkanes are also called saturated hydrocarbons because every carbon atom is bonded to the maximum number of hydrogen atoms possible. Their general formula is CₙH₂ₙ₊₂.

Examples of alkanes include methane (CH₄), ethane (C₂H₆), propane (C₃H₈), and butane (C₄H₁₀). These compounds are non-polar, relatively unreactive compared to other hydrocarbons, and are commonly used as fuels and in the production of other organic compounds.

Other types of aliphatic hydrocarbons include:

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  Alkenes: Contain at least one carbon-to-carbon double bond (C=C). General formula: CₙH₂ₙ.

  
  


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  Alkynes: Contain at least one carbon-to-carbon triple bond (C≡C). General formula: CₙH₂ₙ₋₂.

  
  

Since the question specifies single covalent bonds, the correct answer is alkanes, because alkenes and alkynes have multiple bonds that make them unsaturated hydrocarbons. Alkanes exhibit similar chemical properties but show a gradual change in physical properties as their molecular size increases.

Understanding this classification is important in organic chemistry because it helps identify how different hydrocarbons react, their physical states, and their applications in everyday life such as fuels, natural gas, and petrochemicals.