Home › NPCIL Trainee › Chemistry › Organic Chemistry › What is the general molecular formula for a nonc…
What is the general molecular formula for a noncyclic (straight or branched-chain) alkane containing n carbon atoms?
ACnH2n
BCnH2n-2
CCnH2n+2
DCnHn
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: C. CnH2n+2
1. Every carbon in an alkane is fully saturated with single bonds, maximizing the number of attached hydrogens.
2. The text states: "noncyclic alkanes all have a formula of CnH2n+2."
3. The other formulas correspond to more unsaturated hydrocarbon families (alkenes and alkynes), not fully saturated alkanes.
4. So the general formula for a noncyclic alkane is CnH2n+2.
_Source: OpenStax Chemistry Ch 20 "Organic Chemistry", p.1102 §20.1 Hydrocarbons_
Related questions
The ester ethyl acetate (CH3CO2CH2CH3) forms when acetic acid reacts with which alcohol?Amines are organic molecules defined by the presence of which type of bond?Acetic acid, CH3CO2H, constitutes approximately what percentage of ordinary vinegar?Formic acid, the simplest carboxylic acid, takes its name from the Latin word "formicus," Both carboxylic acids and esters contain a carbonyl group with a second oxygen atom bondedDimethyl ketone, CH3COCH3, is the simplest ketone and is better known by what common name?Formaldehyde (HCHO) is used for preserving tissue specimens and embalming bodies. What proBoth aldehydes and ketones contain a carbonyl group. What structurally distinguishes the t