Write the condensed structure for the straight-chain alkanes shown:


(b) methane

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the molecular formula for methane, which is the simplest alkane.
2. Recall that methane consists of one carbon atom and four hydrogen atoms.
3. Understand that the condensed structural formula represents the arrangement of atoms in a molecule without showing all the individual bonds.
4. For methane, the condensed structural formula is written by placing the carbon atom first, followed by the hydrogen atoms.
5. Write the condensed structural formula for methane as CH₄, indicating one carbon atom bonded to four hydrogen atoms.

Key Concepts

Alkanes

Alkanes are a class of hydrocarbons characterized by single bonds between carbon atoms, following the general formula CnH2n+2. They are saturated compounds, meaning they contain the maximum number of hydrogen atoms possible for a given number of carbon atoms. Alkanes are typically non-polar and exhibit low reactivity, making them stable and commonly found in natural gas and petroleum.

Methane

Methane is the simplest alkane, consisting of one carbon atom bonded to four hydrogen atoms, represented by the chemical formula CH4. It is a colorless, odorless gas at room temperature and is the primary component of natural gas. Methane is significant as a fuel source and is also a potent greenhouse gas when released into the atmosphere.

Condensed Structural Formula

A condensed structural formula is a way of representing the structure of a molecule that shows the arrangement of atoms without depicting all the bonds explicitly. For methane, the condensed formula is simply CH4, indicating that one carbon atom is bonded to four hydrogen atoms. This format is useful for quickly conveying the composition and connectivity of small organic molecules.