Alkynes
Definition
Alkynes are hydrocarbons that contain at least one carbon-carbon triple bond. They have the general formula $C_nH_{2n-2}$.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- Alkynes are unsaturated hydrocarbons, meaning they have fewer hydrogen atoms than alkanes and alkenes of the same carbon count.
- The simplest alkyne is ethyne, commonly known as acetylene, with the molecular formula $C_2H_2$.
- Alkynes undergo addition reactions, where reagents add across the triple bond to form more saturated compounds.
- The presence of a triple bond gives alkynes distinct chemical properties including higher reactivity compared to alkanes and alkenes.
- In naming alkynes according to IUPAC nomenclature, the suffix '-yne' is used to indicate the presence of a triple bond.
Review Questions
- What is the general formula for alkynes?
- What type of reactions do alkynes typically undergo?
- How does the presence of a triple bond affect the reactivity of alkynes compared to alkanes and alkenes?
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Related terms
Alkanes: Hydrocarbons that contain only single bonds between carbon atoms and have the general formula $C_nH_{2n+2}$. They are also known as saturated hydrocarbons.
Alkenes: Hydrocarbons that contain at least one carbon-carbon double bond and have the general formula $C_nH_{2n}$. They are also referred to as unsaturated hydrocarbons.
Addition Reaction: A type of chemical reaction where atoms or groups of atoms are added to a molecule without taking any atom away from it. Commonly occurs in unsaturated hydrocarbons like alkenes and alkynes.
