Chapter 1.17, Problem 1QQ

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The most important chemical use for alkanes involves reaction with what has to be chosen from the given options.

Concept Introduction:

Alkanes are linear chain saturated hydrocarbons.  The reactivity of alkanes are very less.  They can be heated for a very long time in strong acids and bases without any reaction.  Even strong reducing and strong oxidizing agents have less effect on alkanes.

Alkanes are not completely inert.  Two important reactions that alkanes undergo are combustion and halogenation.

Combustion reaction is the one where reaction occurs between substance and oxygen which proceeds with evolution of light and heat.  Due to the heat produced when alkanes are made to undergo combustion with oxygen, it is used as fuel.

Halogenation is a chemical reaction between a substance and halogen.  The product of halogenation reaction is that one or more halogens are incorporated into molecules of the substance.  Halogenation of hydrocarbon gives hydrocarbon derivatives as product where halogen atoms are substituted instead of hydrogen atoms.

Halogenation reaction of alkane is an example of substitution reaction.  This is a reaction where a part of reacting molecule replaces an atom or group of atoms in hydrocarbon or hydrocarbon derivative.

Cycloalkanes are also similar to those of alkanes.  Cycloalkanes also undergo combustion and halogenation reaction.