Alkane and Alkene: Differences Explained in Detail

Alkanes and alkenes are both hydrocarbons, but they differ in their chemical structure and properties. In this answer, we will discuss the differences between alkane and alkene in detail.

Definition:
- Alkanes are hydrocarbons that contain only single covalent bonds between carbon atoms.
- Alkenes are hydrocarbons that contain at least one carbon-carbon double bond.

Molecular Formula:
- The general molecular formula for alkane is CnH2n+2.
- The general molecular formula for alkene is CnH2n.

Bonding:
- Alkanes have only single covalent bonds between carbon atoms.
- Alkenes have at least one carbon-carbon double bond, which consists of one sigma bond and one pi bond.

Physical Properties:
- Alkanes are generally colorless, odorless, and have low melting and boiling points.
- Alkenes are also colorless, but they have a sweet odor and higher melting and boiling points than alkanes.

Chemical Properties:
- Alkanes are relatively unreactive and undergo only a few reactions, such as combustion and substitution reactions.
- Alkenes are more reactive than alkanes due to the presence of the carbon-carbon double bond. They undergo addition reactions with substances such as hydrogen, halogens, and water.

Uses:
- Alkanes are used as fuels and solvents.
- Alkenes are used in the production of plastics, synthetic rubber, and other chemicals.

Conclusion:
In summary, alkanes and alkenes are both hydrocarbons, but they differ in their chemical structure, physical properties, chemical properties, and uses. Alkanes have only single covalent bonds between carbon atoms, while alkenes have at least one carbon-carbon double bond. Alkanes are relatively unreactive, while alkenes are more reactive due to the presence of the carbon-carbon double bond.

Alkanes have single carbon - carbon bond ... whereas alkenes have double carbon=carbon bond...