Alkanes
Chapter Name : Hydrocarbons |
Sub Topic Code : 102_11_13_02_06 |
Topic Name : Alkanes |
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Sub Topic Name : Physical Properties Of Alkanes |
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Introduction
Alkanes experience inter-molecular van der Waals forces. Stronger inter-molecular van der Waals forces give rise to greater boiling points of alkanes.
Pre-Requisites:
Alkanes
Activity:
Salt.
Real Life Question:
Are alkanes good conductors of electricity?
Key Words / FlashCards
| Key Words | Definitions (pref. in our own words) |
|---|---|
| Isomerism | Alkanes with more than three carbon atoms can be arranged in various different ways, forming structural isomers. The simplest isomer of an alkane is the one in which the carbon atoms are arranged in a single chain with no branches. This isomer is sometimes called the n-isomer. |
Learning aids / Gadgets
| Gadgets | How it can be used |
|---|---|
| liquefied petroleum gas | A flammable mixture of hydrocarbon gases used as a fuel in heating appliances and vehicles. |
Real life uses :
They are the main components of natural gas; they are normally stored as gases under pressure.
Places to visit :
Chemistry laboratory.
Practical examples around us
| Examples | Explainations |
|---|---|
| alcohol | An organic compound in which the hydroxyl functional group (-O H) is bound to a carbon atom. In particular, this carbon center should be saturated, having single bonds to three other atoms. |
What you learn in Theory:
The larger the molecule the higher the melting point. There is one significant difference between boiling points and melting points. Solids have more rigid and fixed structure than liquids. This rigid structure requires energy to break down.
What you learn in Practice:
Alkanes do not conduct electricity, nor are they substantially polarized by an electric field.