Answer
Determine the Molecular Formula of a Branched Alkane
Explanation:
Compounds made up of hydrogen and carbon atoms joined by single covalent bonds are known as alkanes. These are part of the group of saturated hydrocarbons.
Compounds made up of hydrogen and carbon atoms joined by single covalent bonds are known as alkanes. These are part of the group of saturated hydrocarbons.
Step 2: Examine the Structure
The given structure is as follows:
Observe the carbon skeleton:
- This is a branched alkane.
- Contains only single bonds.
- No double bonds or rings are present.
Counting Carbon Atoms (C)
Start from one end and count all carbon atoms, including those in branches.
- 3 carbon branches are attached to a core carbon.
- Total number of carbon atoms found: 8
Counting Hydrogen Atoms (H)
Use the general alkane formula: CnH2n+2
- Given: n = 8
- Hydrogens: H = 2(8) + 2 = 18
Write the Molecular Formula
- Carbon: 8
- Hydrogen: 18
The molecular formula is: C8H18
Confirm It’s an Alkane
- All bonds are single.
- The formula matches that of octane (C8H18), but in a branched form.
Explanation:
The molecular formula represents the exact number of each type of atom in a molecule. In this case, it gives the complete composition of the branched alkane.
The molecular formula represents the exact number of each type of atom in a molecule. In this case, it gives the complete composition of the branched alkane.
✅ Final Answer: C8H18