Chapter 23.1, Problem 3R

To determine

To Compare: Ethane, ethene and ethyne.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction: Hydrocarbons having single bonds between atoms are classified as alkanes, those having double bonds between carbon atoms are classified as alkenes and hydrocarbons having triple bonds between carbon-carbon are called alkynes.

Ethane, ${\text{C}}_2{\text{H}}_6$, has the structural formula:

  

The bond between its two carbon atoms is a single covalent bond. Each carbon is attached to three hydrogen atoms by single bond.

Ethene, ${\text{C}}_2{\text{H}}_4$, has the structural formula:

  

The bond between its two carbon atoms is double covalent bond. Each carbon is attached to two hydrogen atoms by single bond.

Ethyne, ${\text{C}}_2{\text{H}}_2$, has the structural formula:

  

The bond between its two carbon atoms is triple covalent bond. Each carbon is attached to one hydrogen atoms by single bond.

Conclusion:

Ethane, ethene and ethyne each contains two carbon atoms, but has different type of carbon-carbon bond. Ethane has a single carbon-carbon bond, whereas ethene and ethyne have double and triple carbon-carbon bond respectively.