If an Alkane Contains Five Carbon Atoms, How Many Hydrogen Atoms Will It Contain?

Understanding Alkanes

Alkanes are a class of hydrocarbons characterized by single bonds between the carbon atoms. They are saturated hydrocarbons, meaning that they have the maximum number of hydrogen atoms attached to the carbon skeleton. The general formula for alkanes is given by C_nH_2n+2, where ‘n’ represents the number of carbon atoms.

Calculating the Number of Hydrogen Atoms

To find out how many hydrogen atoms an alkane with five carbon atoms contains, we can apply the aforementioned formula. If we substitute ‘n’ with 5:

• C_n = C₅
• H_2n+2 = H₂₍₅₎₊₂ = H₁₂

This calculation reveals that an alkane with five carbon atoms (C₅) will contain twelve hydrogen atoms (H₁₂). This compound is known as pentane, a common alkane that can exist in several structural isomers.

Examples of Pentane Isomers

Pentane has three structural isomers, which are:

• n-Pentane: A straight-chain alkane.
• Isopentane (Methylbutane): A branched-chain alkane.
• Neopentane (Dimethylpropane): Another branched structure.

Each of these isomers has different properties despite having the same molecular formula, C₅H₁₂.

Importance of Alkanes

Alkanes play a crucial role in the chemical industry and are foundational in the study of organic chemistry. They are primarily found in natural gas and crude oil, serving as vital fuels and feedstocks for producing various chemicals.

Case Study: Applications of Pentane

Pentane is widely used in various applications, including:

• As a solvent: Pentane is common in laboratories as a solvent for various chemical reactions.
• In the production of polystyrene: It’s used as a blowing agent for creating foam insulation.
• In fuel: Because it burns cleanly, pentane is used in gasoline formulations.

Statistics on Alkane Usage

Recent studies indicate that alkanes such as pentane are significant contributors in the energy market. For example:

• According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, alkanes account for about 90% of the hydrocarbons produced globally.
• In 2020, the demand for alkanes surged by 3% despite the global pandemic, showcasing their resilience in the market.

Conclusion

In conclusion, an alkane containing five carbon atoms, specifically pentane, will contain twelve hydrogen atoms. This fundamental relationship is crucial for understanding the structure and behavior of alkanes. From industrial applications to energy consumption, the importance of pentane and other alkanes in both the economy and chemistry cannot be overstated.