Question

Why are certain compounds called hydrocarbons? Write the general formula for homologous  series of alkanes, alkenes and alkynes and also draw the structure of the first member of each  series. Write the name of the reaction that converts alkenes into alkanes and also write a  chemical equation to show the necessary conditions for the reaction to occur.

Answer 1

In organic chemistry, a hydrocarbon is an organic compound consisting entirely of hydrogen and carbon, and thus are group 14 hydrides. Hydrocarbons from which one hydrogen atom has been removed are functional groups, called hydrocarbyls. Compounds of hydrogen and carbon are called hydrocarbons.

Homologous series of Alkanes: CnH2n+2

Homologous series of Alkenes: CnH2n

Homologous series of Alkynes: CnH2n-2

Structure of the first member of each series:

Addition reaction or hydrogenation converts alkenes into alkanes.