Chemical formula: Cn H2n+2
Suffix: -ane
Prefix: Hydrocarbon's prefixes
Properties:
- Non-polar molecule.
- Tent to be gases or liquids.
- Boil at a low temperature.
Characteristics:
- Are saturated hydrocarbons.
- Simple covalent bond.
Simplest alkane: Methane.
Main differences between methane and propane:
Methane
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Propane
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· It is a
colorless, odorless gas with a wide distribution in nature.
· The main
component of natural gas, and probably the most abundant organic compound.
· It is
lighter than air, so it tends to rise and dissipate into the air, passing
less of an explosive risk.
· It doesn’t
compress as easily. It usually comes to your home from a utility company
along dedicated lines to power things like water heater.
· Provides
less energy per unit volume than does propane. In a given volume, it has 1000
BTUs.
· It can
be less expensive.
· The
number of carbon atoms and therefore size of the molecules. CH4.
· Its
molar mass is 16,04 gmol-1.
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· It is a gaseous component of
natural gas, component of crude oil.
· A mixture of propane and butane is
used mainly as vehicle fuel.
· It is heavier than air, so it
tends to fall to the ground, and pose a greater explosive risk.
· It is easy to compress and carry in
a portable tank. You can buy compressed propane at most gas stations. It can
be used as a barbeque grill.
· Provides more energy per unit
volume that does methane. In a given volume, it has 2500 BTUs.
· It can be more expensive.
· The number of carbon atoms and
therefore size of the molecules. C3H8.
· Its molar mass is 44,1 gmol-1.
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