For nomenclature of alkenes in the IUPAC system, the longest chain of...
The general formula of alkenes is CnH2n (where n = 2, 3, 4, ...)
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For nomenclature of alkenes in the IUPAC system, the longest chain of...
General Formula of Alkenes
The general formula of alkenes is CnH2n.
Explanation:
Alkenes are a class of organic compounds that contain a carbon-carbon double bond. They are unsaturated hydrocarbons because they have fewer hydrogen atoms compared to alkanes, which are saturated hydrocarbons.
Longest Chain Selection
In the IUPAC system, the longest chain of carbon atoms containing the double bond is selected for nomenclature. This is because the double bond is the functional group that determines the chemical properties of the compound.
Numbering of the Chain
Once the longest chain is selected, numbering of the chain is done from the end that is nearer to the double bond. This is to assign the lowest possible numbers to the carbon atoms in the double bond.
Suffix ‘ene’ Replaces ‘ane’
In the nomenclature of alkenes, the suffix ‘ene’ replaces the ‘ane’ of alkanes. This is to indicate the presence of a double bond in the compound.
First Member of the Alkene Series
The first member of the alkene series is the simplest alkene, which has the formula C2H4. It is commonly known as ethylene, but in the IUPAC system, it is named as ethene.
General Formula of Alkenes
The general formula of alkenes is CnH2n. This means that for every carbon atom in the alkene, there are two hydrogen atoms. The number of carbon atoms in the alkene can vary, resulting in different members of the alkene series.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the general formula of alkenes is CnH2n. This formula represents the ratio of carbon and hydrogen atoms in alkenes, where n represents the number of carbon atoms in the alkene. The first stable member of the alkene series is ethene, which has the formula C2H4.
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