Hydrocarbons

Definition

Hydrocarbons are organic compounds composed exclusively of hydrogen and carbon atoms. They serve as the fundamental building blocks for more complex biological molecules and are primarily found in fossil fuels.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hydrocarbons can be classified into alkanes, alkenes, and alkynes based on the types of bonds between carbon atoms.
2. They are hydrophobic and non-polar, making them insoluble in water.
3. Hydrocarbons are a major source of energy in biological systems, often stored as fats and oils.
4. Methane (CH4) is the simplest hydrocarbon and is a significant component of natural gas.
5. The properties of hydrocarbons significantly influence their role in cellular structures like membranes.

Review Questions

• What distinguishes hydrocarbons from other organic compounds?
• Why are hydrocarbons considered hydrophobic?
• How do the different types of bonds in hydrocarbons (alkanes, alkenes, alkynes) affect their chemical properties?

Related terms

Alkane: A type of hydrocarbon with only single bonds between carbon atoms.

Alkene: A type of hydrocarbon that contains at least one double bond between carbon atoms.

Lipid: A class of biological molecules that includes fats and oils, often containing long hydrocarbon chains.