Question

What is meant by saturated and unsaturated compounds?

Answer 1

Saturated compounds

Example for open chain saturated compounds are alkanes. They are represented by the formula $C_n{H}_{2n+2}$. In these compounds all the four valencies of Carbon ($C$) are satisfied by single covalent bonds. And it does not contain any functional group.

Unsaturated compounds

In unsaturated Carbon ($C$) compounds the valencies of Carbon ($C$) are satisfied by double and triple bonds. For example, compounds with double bonds are called alkenes; and compounds with triple bonds are called alkynes. The general formula for alkenes is $C_n{H}_{2n}$ and the general formula for alkynes is $C_n{H}_{2n-2}$.