Must knows for science

CₙH₂ₙ₊₂ = alkane formula

Methane → Ethane → Propane → Butane → Pentane → Hexane → Heptane → Octane

Carbon forms 4 bonds

Crude oil = mixture of hydrocarbons

Fractional distillation separates hydrocarbons based on different boiling points

Top = cooler = lower boiling point = shorter chains

Bottom = hotter = higher boiling point = longer chains

Complete combustion = plenty of O₂ → CO₂ + H₂O

Incomplete combustion = limited O₂ → CO and/or C + H₂O

Incomplete combustion can produce poisonous CO

Complete combustion generally releases more energy

Hydrocarbons are used as transport fuels

Hydrocarbons can generate electricity

Hydrocarbons are raw materials for polymers/plastics

Hydrocarbon-derived chemicals are used in industrial chemicals and cosmetics

Hydrocarbon use increased greatly with industrialisation and the development of modern transport