Question

The total number of different carbon chains that 4 carbon atoms form in an alkane is.

• A. 5
• B. 4
• C. 3
• D. 2

Answer 1

The correct option is D

2

Explanation for correct option

(D) 2

Definition of alkanes

• Alkanes are organic compounds that form carbon-hydrogen single bonds or sigma bonds with a shared pair of electrons.
• Alkanes have general formula as ${\mathrm{C}}_{\mathrm{n}}{\mathrm{H}}_{2\mathrm{n}+2}$

Types of Carbon chains :

• Straight carbon chain: These alkanes are called straight long-chain alkanes because the carbon atoms are connected in one continuous chain with no branches.
• Branched carbon chain: A branched-chain alkane or branched alkane is an alkane that has alkyl groups bonded to its carbon chain with the carbon in the middle.

Explanation

• 4 carbons have a formula of ${\mathrm{C}}_4{\mathrm{H}}_{10}$
• The structure of the alkane can be predicted as : ${\mathrm{H}}_3\mathrm{C}-{\mathrm{CH}}_2-{\mathrm{CH}}_2-{\mathrm{CH}}_3$
• The image alongside shows a straight-chain and branched-chain alkane containing 4 carbons.

Therefore, The total number of different carbon chains that 4 carbon atoms form in an alkane is 2.