Alkanes

The general formula for alkanes is as follows:

• C_nH_2n+2   (where “n” is a constant)

The first ten members of the homologous series of the alkanes are:

• CH₄     (Methane)
• C₂H₆     (Ethane)
• C₃H₈     (Propane)
• C₄H₁₀     (Butane)
• C₅H₁₂     (Pentane)
• C₆H₁₄     (Hexane)
• C₇H₁₆     (Heptane)
• C₈H₁₈     (Octane)
• C₉H₂₀     (Nonane)
• C₁₀H₂₂     (Decane)

Alkanes consist of strong covalent bonds therefore they are, on the whole, quite un-reactive. They do not react with acids, alkalis, and oxidising agents. Their most important reaction is that of combustion.

The main chemical reactions that alkanes undergo are:

• Combustion
• Substitution with halogens
• Catalytic Cracking