Hydrocarbon

Definition

Hydrocarbons are organic compounds consisting entirely of hydrogen and carbon atoms. They form the framework for alkanes and vary in size, structure, and properties based on the arrangement of their atoms.

Related terms

Alkane:

An alkane is a type of hydrocarbon with single bonds only between carbon atoms, forming a saturated molecule.

Isomerism:

Isomerism occurs when two or more compounds have the same molecular formula but different structural formulas or arrangements of atoms.

Stereochemistry:

Stereochemistry involves the study of the spatial arrangements of atoms in molecules and how this affects their chemical behavior and properties