Aliphatic hydrocarbons

Definition

Aliphatic hydrocarbons are organic compounds consisting solely of carbon and hydrogen atoms arranged in straight or branched chains, but not containing aromatic rings. They can be saturated (alkanes) or unsaturated (alkenes and alkynes).

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Aliphatic hydrocarbons are divided into three categories: alkanes, alkenes, and alkynes.
2. Saturated aliphatic hydrocarbons contain only single bonds between carbon atoms.
3. Unsaturated aliphatic hydrocarbons contain one or more double (alkenes) or triple bonds (alkynes).
4. They are hydrophobic and generally insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents.
5. Aliphatic hydrocarbons serve as a basic framework for various biological molecules and are involved in metabolic processes.

Related terms

Aromatic Hydrocarbons: Organic compounds that contain conjugated ring systems with alternating double bonds, such as benzene.

Hydrocarbon Chain: A series of connected carbon atoms with hydrogen atoms attached, forming the backbone structure for many organic molecules.

Functional Group: A specific group of atoms within a molecule that is responsible for certain chemical reactions and properties of that molecule.