The general formula for alkanes is as follows:
CnH2n+2 (where "n" is a constant)
The first ten members of the homologous series of the alkanes are:
CH4 (Methane)
C2H6 (Ethane)
C3H8 (Propane)
C4H10 (Butane)
C5H12 (Pentane)
C6H14 (Hexane)
C7H16 (Heptane)
C8H18 (Octane)
C9H20 (Nonane)
C10H22 (Decane)
Alkanes consist of strong covalent bonds therefore they are, on the whole, quite un-reactive. They do not react with acids, alkalis, and oxidising agents. Their most important reaction is that of combustion.
The main chemical reactions that alkanes undergo are:
- Combustion
- Substitution with halogens
- Catalytic Cracking
 (Methane)
 (Ethane)
See also:
Alkenes /
Alcohol
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GCSE Chemistry > Alkanes