The general formula of the alkane homologous series is

Correct answer: C. CnH2n+2

  • A. CnH2n
  • B. CnH2n-2
  • C. CnH2n+2
  • D. CnH2n+1

Explanation

Every carbon in a saturated open chain carries the maximum hydrogen, giving two per carbon plus two extra for the ends of the chain, so hexane is C6H14. CnH2n belongs to alkenes and cycloalkanes and CnH2n-2 to alkynes. CnH2n+1 is not a molecule at all but an alkyl group, such as methyl or ethyl.

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About Alkanes

Alkanes are saturated hydrocarbons containing only carbon-carbon and carbon-hydrogen single bonds, with the general formula CnH2n+2 for open chains. Their structure, isomerism, IUPAC nomenclature, physical properties, combustion, free-radical halogenation and conformations are covered, including the difference between substitution in alkanes and addition in unsaturated hydrocarbons.

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