Alkene
Alkene
Alkene (pronunciation: /ˈælkiːn/), also known as olefin, is a type of hydrocarbon that contains a carbon-carbon double bond. The term "alkene" is derived from the word "alkane" with the suffix "-ene" indicating the presence of a double bond.
Structure
Alkenes are characterized by the presence of a carbon-carbon double bond. This double bond consists of a sigma bond and a pi bond, making alkenes more reactive than their alkane counterparts. The simplest alkene, ethene, has two carbon atoms and a double bond.
Properties
Alkenes are unsaturated hydrocarbons, meaning they have fewer hydrogen atoms than alkanes. They are generally less dense than water and are insoluble in water due to their nonpolar nature. Alkenes have lower boiling points than alkanes but higher than alkynes. They are colorless and odorless in their pure form.
Reactions
Alkenes are involved in many chemical reactions, including addition reactions, polymerization, and hydrogenation. The double bond in alkenes makes them particularly reactive, especially in the presence of a catalyst.
Uses
Alkenes are used in a variety of applications, including the production of plastics, resins, and synthetic rubber. They are also used in the manufacture of detergents and pharmaceuticals.
Related Terms
- Alkane: A type of hydrocarbon with only single bonds.
- Alkyne: A type of hydrocarbon with a carbon-carbon triple bond.
- Hydrocarbon: Compounds consisting only of carbon and hydrogen atoms.
- Addition reaction: A reaction in which atoms or groups are added to a molecule.
- Polymerization: The process of combining many small molecules into a larger one.
- Hydrogenation: The addition of hydrogen to a molecule.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Alkene
- Wikipedia's article - Alkene
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