alleryStart learning →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_
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