Chapter 21- Section 1- Introduction to Hydrocarbons

Introduction to Hydrocarbons

Hydrocarbons are carbon-containing organic compounds that serve as key sources of energy and raw materials.

Vocabulary Review

• Organic Compound: Contains carbon, except for carbon oxides, carbides, and carbonates.

• Hydrocarbon: The simplest organic compound, composed solely of carbon and hydrogen.

• Saturated Hydrocarbon: Contains only single bonds.

• Unsaturated Hydrocarbon: Contains at least one double or triple bond.

• Fractional Distillation: Process for separating petroleum into components by boiling.

• Cracking: Converts heavy petroleum fractions into lighter fractions, such as gasoline.

Key Formulas

• General Formula for Alkanes (Saturated Hydrocarbons): C_nH_(2n+2)

• General Formula for Alkenes (Unsaturated Hydrocarbons): C_nH_(2n)

• General Formula for Alkynes (Unsaturated Hydrocarbons): C_nH_(2n-2)

Summary

Hydrocarbons are essential compounds that illustrate carbon's bonding capacity. Major sources include petroleum and natural gas, refined through fractional distillation and cracking processes.