C 5.3 Hydrocarbons Flashcards
(10 cards)
What is a hydrocarbon?
A compound made of hydrogen and carbon atoms only.
What is the general formula of alkanes?
CnH₂n+2
Are alkanes saturated or unsaturated? Why?
Saturated, because they contain only single covalent bonds.
How does the length of the carbon chain affect the boiling point?
The longer the chain, the higher the boiling point.
How does chain length affect flammability?
Shorter chains are more flammable than longer ones.
How does chain length affect viscosity?
Longer chains are more viscous (thicker); shorter chains are less viscous (runny).
What happens during complete combustion of a hydrocarbon?
The hydrocarbon reacts with oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water.
What are the products of incomplete combustion?
Carbon monoxide, carbon (soot), and water.
Why is carbon monoxide dangerous?
It’s toxic and prevents oxygen transport in the blood by binding to haemoglobin.
Give the word equation for complete combustion of methane.
Methane + oxygen → carbon dioxide + water.
