Chapter 21.2, Problem 12SSC

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The main structural characteristics of alkane molecules need to determined.

Concept introduction:

The hydrocarbon compounds contain compound that are made up of only hydrogen and carbon atoms.

Explanation of Solution

The hydrocarbon compounds that contains single bond(s) between carbon atom(s) are said to be saturated hydrocarbon. Compounds containing single bonds between carbon atoms and hydrogen atoms are said to be alkane. Alkanes are non-polar in nature. The general formula for alkane is ${\text{C}}_{\text{n}}{\text{H}}_{\text{2n+2}}$, where $\text{n}$ represents number of carbon atoms. Each carbon atom in alkane is ${\text{sp}}^{\text{3}}$ hybridized, tetrahedral shape with bond angle of $\text{109}{\text{.5}}^{\text{o}}$ to each other. The chain of carbon atoms is very flexible due to presence of single bond; thus, it shows free rotation around the carbon-carbon single bonds.