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Alkane

An alkane is a carbon chain linked together by double carbon bonds. The general formula for any alkane is C_(n)H_{(2n + 2)}; in other words, twice as many plus two hydrogen atoms as carbon. The first alkane, methane, is one carbon with four hydrogen, each hydrogen taking up one bond on the carbon atom; the second, ethane, is two carbons single-bonded surrounded by six hydrogen taking up the other bonds. The carbon bonds hold a significant amount of energy which is released when alkanes are combusted.

Alkanes are also called paraffins, or the paraffin series. Almost all alkanes of any type are combustible. If there are more than three carbon atoms, the alkane has several isomers, or arrangements. The normal alkane has a linear and unbranched configuration. For alkanes with 1-12 carbon atoms, the number of isomers for each is 1, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 9, 18, 35, 75, 159, and 355, respectively. The nomenclature of these isomers changes to reflect this.

Alkanes occur naturally on Earth and throughout the solar system, including in comets and in meteorites. It is common to find alkanes anywhere organic matter has collected on the Earth.

Web Resources On Alkane

Alkane Physical Properties
Wolfram Science: Alkane

Book Resources On Alkane

Catalytic Activation and Functionalisation of Light Alkanes by E.G. Derouane et al.
Activation and Functionalization of Alkanes by Craig L. Hill (Ed)

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