Hydrocarbon
| Formula / Notation | CₙH₂ₙ₊₂ (alkanes), CₙH₂ₙ (alkenes), CₙH₂ₙ₋₂ (alkynes), C₆H₂ₙ₋₆ (arenes) |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | Organic compounds of C and H; petroleum hydrocarbons; alkanes, alkenes, arenes |
What is Hydrocarbon?
An organic compound containing only carbon and hydrogen atoms. Hydrocarbons are classified as aliphatic (alkanes, alkenes, alkynes) or aromatic (benzene and derivatives). They are the main components of petroleum and natural gas, used as fuels and chemical feedstocks.
Formula & Notation
Other Names / Synonyms: Organic compounds of C and H; petroleum hydrocarbons; alkanes, alkenes, arenes
Properties & Characteristics
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
An organic compound containing only carbon and hydrogen atoms. Hydrocarbons are classified as aliphatic (alkanes, alkenes, alkynes) or aromatic (benzene and derivatives). They are the main components of petroleum and natural gas, used as fuels and chemical feedstocks.
Hydrocarbons are the primary fuels (natural gas = methane, petrol = C₈H₁₈ blend, diesel = C₁₆H₃₄ blend) and chemical feedstocks (ethylene, propylene, benzene, toluene) for the chemical industry. They are used as solvents (hexane, cyclohexane, toluene), lubricants (mineral oil), and in polymer produc…
Hydrocarbons are flammable to highly flammable; most have low flash points. Volatile hydrocarbons (benzene, toluene, xylene) are toxic inhalation hazards; benzene is a known carcinogen. PAHs in combustion products are carcinogenic. Store away from ignition sources; use in well-ventilated areas.
The formula or notation for Hydrocarbon is: CₙH₂ₙ₊₂ (alkanes), CₙH₂ₙ (alkenes), CₙH₂ₙ₋₂ (alkynes), C₆H₂ₙ₋₆ (arenes)