Classify each hydrocarbon as an alkane, alkene, or alkyne. a. HC≡CH

Key Concepts

Hydrocarbons

Hydrocarbons are organic compounds composed solely of hydrogen and carbon atoms. They serve as the fundamental building blocks of organic chemistry and can be classified into different categories based on their bonding and structure. The main types include alkanes, alkenes, and alkynes, each with distinct properties and reactivity.

Alkanes, Alkenes, and Alkynes

Alkanes are saturated hydrocarbons with single bonds between carbon atoms, represented by the general formula CnH2n+2. Alkenes contain at least one carbon-carbon double bond, following the formula CnH2n, while alkynes have at least one carbon-carbon triple bond, represented by CnH2n-2. This classification is crucial for understanding the reactivity and properties of these compounds.

Nomenclature and Structure

The nomenclature of hydrocarbons is based on the number of carbon atoms and the type of bonds present. For example, the compound HC≡CH has two carbon atoms connected by a triple bond, indicating it is an alkyne. Understanding the structural representation and naming conventions is essential for correctly classifying and communicating about different hydrocarbons.