physical properties of alkanes

What is the general formula

CnH2n+2

What are the key features

Each carbon forms 4 single bonds, formed by the direct overlap of atomic orbitals, fully saturated

What are cycloalkanes

Carbon atoms form a ring structure, the general formula is CnH2n, saturated

What is the shape of an alkane

Tetrahedral

What is the boiling point like

increases as the number of carbon atoms increase

Explain why the BP increases as you add more carbons

Longer chain means more electrons present, creating stronger induced dipoles, stronger dipoles mean stronger induced dipole forces, so more energy needed to overcome forces

How does branching affect BP

Straight chains can pack closer together, maximising electron cloud interaction, more branching means weaker dipole forces, less energy needed to overcome forces