Problem 8 - Chemistry for Allied Health

Question

What is the name for the alkane with six carbons? four carbons? two carbons?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Hexane, Butane, Ethane.

Step 1: Understanding Alkanes

Alkanes are hydrocarbons with the general formula \(C_nH_{2n+2}\), where \(n\) represents the number of carbon atoms. The names of alkanes are based on the number of carbon atoms they contain.

Step 2: Name of Alkane with Six Carbons

An alkane with six carbon atoms follows the pattern used for naming alkanes. The prefix for six carbons is 'hex-', and the suffix for all alkanes is '-ane'. Therefore, the alkane with six carbons is called 'hexane'.

Step 3: Name of Alkane with Four Carbons

For an alkane with four carbon atoms, the prefix is 'but-'. Combining this prefix with the alkane suffix '-ane' gives us the name 'butane' for this four-carbon alkane.

Step 4: Name of Alkane with Two Carbons

An alkane with two carbon atoms uses the prefix 'eth-'. Adding the suffix '-ane' results in the name 'ethane' for the alkane with two carbon atoms.

Key Concepts

Hydrocarbons

Hydrocarbons are a class of organic compounds containing only carbon (C) and hydrogen (H) atoms. They serve as the foundational structure in organic chemistry. Among hydrocarbons, alkanes are the simplest type:

• They are saturated hydrocarbons, meaning all carbon-carbon bonds are single bonds.
• The general formula for alkanes is \(C_nH_{2n+2}\), where \(n\) is the number of carbon atoms.

Commonly found in gasoline and natural gas, alkanes are an essential part of everyday life. The simplest alkane is methane, with just one carbon atom. The naming of alkanes progresses with the introduction of more carbon atoms, following a systematic pattern.

Carbon Atoms

The number of carbon atoms in an alkane is crucial for determining its name. Carbon atoms can form long chains, branching structures, and complex rings, giving rise to the diverse nature of hydrocarbons.

• For two carbon atoms, the alkane is named 'ethane'.
• Four carbon atoms form 'butane'.
• Six carbon atoms lead to the compound known as 'hexane'.

This system uses specific prefixes derived from Greek and Latin. It allows chemists to quickly identify and categorize alkanes based on their carbon content. These prefixes serve as key identifiers in the alkane's name.

Organic Chemistry

Organic chemistry is the branch of chemistry focused on the study of carbon-based compounds, especially hydrocarbons. This field explores the structure, properties, composition, reactions, and synthesis of carbon-containing compounds.

• Alkanes represent just one group of compounds studied within organic chemistry.
• They are used as a starting point for understanding more complex chemical reactions and molecules.
• Organic chemistry is central to numerous industries, including pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and petrochemicals.

The study of alkanes helps lay the groundwork for more advanced topics, such as polymers and biologically active molecules. Mastery of these fundamentals is essential for anyone looking to delve deeper into the world of organic compounds.