The general molecular formula CnH2n?2 represents that of an
Answer Details
The molecular formula CnH2n-2 represents an alkyne.
To understand this, let's take a look at the characteristics of hydrocarbons, which are compounds made up of hydrogen and carbon:
Alkanes are saturated hydrocarbons (only single bonds) and have the general formula CnH2n+2.
Alkenes are unsaturated hydrocarbons with at least one double bond and have the general formula CnH2n.
Alkynes are also unsaturated hydrocarbons, but they contain at least one triple bond and follow the general formula CnH2n-2.
Alkanals are not hydrocarbons; they are aldehydes with at least one -CHO group.
The formula CnH2n-2 indicates the presence of two fewer hydrogen atoms than in an alkene. This deficiency of hydrogen atoms is characteristic of a triple bond, which is a key feature of alkynes. Therefore, hydrocarbons with this formula must contain at least one triple carbon-carbon bond.