Hydrocarbons are organic compounds composed exclusively of hydrogen and carbon atoms. They are the fundamental building blocks of many fossil fuels and are also found in various natural substances. Hydrocarbons can be classified into several categories based on their structure:
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Aliphatic Hydrocarbons: These are further divided into:
- Alkanes: Saturated hydrocarbons with single bonds (e.g., methane, ethane).
- Alkenes: Unsaturated hydrocarbons with at least one double bond (e.g., ethylene).
- Alkynes: Unsaturated hydrocarbons with at least one triple bond (e.g., acetylene).
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Aromatic Hydrocarbons: These contain one or more aromatic rings, which are cyclic structures with alternating double bonds that follow Huckel’s rule (e.g., benzene, toluene).
Hydrocarbons can be found in various states, including gases (like methane), liquids (like gasoline and kerosene), and solids (like coal and some waxes). They are primarily used as fuels and are significant sources of energy, as well as raw materials in the production of chemicals, plastics, and other synthetic materials. Hydrocarbon combustion is also a major source of energy and carbon dioxide emissions, contributing to environmental concerns such as climate change.