Alkanes vs. Alkenes: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sawaira Riaz || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on October 20, 2023
Alkanes are saturated hydrocarbons with single bonds only, while alkenes are unsaturated hydrocarbons with at least one double bond.
Key Differences
Alkanes, sometimes termed as paraffins, are hydrocarbons where all carbon-carbon bonds are single, indicating full saturation. In contrast, alkenes, also known as olefins, are hydrocarbons that contain at least one carbon-carbon double bond, showcasing unsaturation.
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Oct 20, 2023
The presence of a double bond in alkenes makes them generally more reactive than alkanes. Alkanes, with their single bonds, tend to be less reactive and more stable under standard conditions. This difference in reactivity means that alkanes and alkenes undergo different types of chemical reactions.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 20, 2023
In terms of nomenclature, alkanes use the suffix "-ane" (like methane, propane), while alkenes use the suffix "-ene" (like ethene, propene). This linguistic differentiation provides a clue to their structural differences and is useful for quick identification.
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Oct 20, 2023
The physical properties of alkanes and alkenes also differ. Alkanes, for instance, are generally less dense than water and are not very soluble in it. Alkenes, although sharing some similar properties with alkanes, might have slightly different boiling and melting points due to the presence of a double bond.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 20, 2023
From a source perspective, alkanes are abundant in natural gas and petroleum, and their combustion is a primary energy source. Alkenes, while also found in petroleum, are usually synthesized for industrial uses, leveraging their reactivity.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 20, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Sources
Abundant in natural gas and petroleum.
Found in petroleum; often synthesized for industrial use.
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Oct 20, 2023
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Alkanes and Alkenes Definitions
Alkanes
Organic compounds with only carbon and hydrogen atoms.
Pentane is an alkane with five carbon atoms.
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Oct 20, 2023
Alkenes
Unsaturated hydrocarbons with at least one double bond.
Ethene, commonly known as ethylene, is a simple alkene.
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Oct 20, 2023
Alkanes
Saturated hydrocarbons with only single bonds.
Methane and ethane are examples of alkanes.
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Oct 20, 2023
Alkenes
Hydrocarbons with the general formula CnH2n.
Propene has the formula C3H6, adhering to the alkene general formula.
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Oct 20, 2023
Alkanes
Hydrocarbons with the general formula CnH2n+2.
Propane, an alkane, has the chemical formula C3H8.
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Oct 20, 2023
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Alkenes
More reactive than alkanes due to the presence of double bonds.
Alkenes can participate in addition reactions because of their double bond.
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Oct 20, 2023
Alkanes
Chemical compounds predominantly found in natural gas and oil.
The combustion of alkanes provides significant energy.
Harlon Moss
Oct 20, 2023
Alkenes
Hydrocarbons that can undergo polymerization.
Polyethylene is produced from the polymerization of ethene molecules.
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Oct 20, 2023
Alkanes
Stable compounds due to the absence of double or triple bonds.
Alkanes are less reactive than their unsaturated counterparts.
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Oct 20, 2023
Alkenes
Organic compounds used widely in the petrochemical industry.
Ethene is used in the production of polyethylene plastics.
Sara Rehman
Oct 20, 2023
Alkenes
Any of a series of unsaturated, aliphatic hydrocarbons with a carbon-carbon double bond, having the general formula CnH2n.
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May 26, 2020
FAQs
What type of bonds do alkanes possess?
Alkanes have single carbon-carbon bonds.
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Oct 20, 2023
How can you distinguish between an alkane and an alkene by name?
Alkanes have names ending in "-ane" while alkenes end in "-ene".
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Oct 20, 2023
Are alkanes found in natural gas?
Yes, alkanes are major constituents of natural gas.
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Oct 20, 2023
Can alkenes be used to make plastics?
Yes, alkenes like ethene are used to make plastics like polyethylene.
Janet White
Oct 20, 2023
How are alkenes used in the chemical industry?
Alkenes are key reactants in many chemical processes, including polymerization.
Harlon Moss
Oct 20, 2023
Which is generally more reactive, alkanes or alkenes?
Alkenes are generally more reactive due to the presence of a double bond.
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Oct 20, 2023
Why are alkanes termed as saturated hydrocarbons?
Because alkanes have only single bonds, filling all available bond sites.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 20, 2023
What is the general formula for alkanes?
The general formula for alkanes is CnH2n+2.
Janet White
Oct 20, 2023
Which is more stable under standard conditions, alkanes or alkenes?
Alkanes are generally more stable because they lack double bonds.
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Oct 20, 2023
What role do alkenes play in polymer production?
Alkenes can undergo polymerization to produce plastics and other polymers.
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Oct 20, 2023
Are alkenes saturated or unsaturated hydrocarbons?
Alkenes are unsaturated hydrocarbons.
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Oct 20, 2023
How does the presence of a double bond affect the properties of alkenes?
The double bond makes alkenes more reactive and can alter physical properties like boiling points.
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Oct 20, 2023
Can alkanes undergo combustion?
Yes, alkanes can burn in oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water.
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Oct 20, 2023
Is it possible for alkanes to have a ring structure?
Yes, cyclic alkanes have a ring structure.
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Oct 20, 2023
Why are alkenes called olefins?
"Olefin" is an older term for alkenes, referring to oils produced from them.
Janet White
Oct 20, 2023
Do alkanes and alkenes have similar sources?
Both can be found in petroleum, but alkanes are also major components of natural gas.
Harlon Moss
Oct 20, 2023
Are alkenes found in everyday products?
Yes, alkenes are used in the production of many polymers found in everyday products.
Sara Rehman
Oct 20, 2023
Can alkenes be turned into alkanes?
Yes, through a process called hydrogenation, alkenes can be converted into alkanes.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 20, 2023
How does the presence of double bonds affect the reactivity of alkenes?
The double bond in alkenes makes them more reactive, allowing them to undergo addition reactions.
Janet White
Oct 20, 2023
How do the boiling points of alkanes and alkenes compare?
Alkanes and alkenes have similar boiling points, but the presence of a double bond can slightly alter an alkene's boiling point.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 20, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
