What is the difference between an alkene and an alkane?

Both alkanes and alkenes are hydrocarbons, which means they only contain carbon and hydrogen atoms.

Alkanes are saturated hydrocarbons, which means each carbon atom is bonded to four other atoms and there are no double bonds in the molecule. The formula of the molecule will be CnH2n

Alkenes are unsaturated hydrocarbons, which means there are one or more double bonds between carbons atoms within the molecule. The formula of the molecule will be CnHn

EM
Answered by Eleanor M. Chemistry tutor

13362 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Describe how elements of the periodic table are arranged relating to their atomic structure. (6 marks)


Why do different metals burn with different colors?


Describe the trend in reactivity as you go down group 2 metals?


Polyester is a common polymer used in clothing. State the name of the chemical reaction used to form polyester by reaction of ethanedioic acid and ethane-1,2-diol. Give the name of the molecule which is lost upon condensation of these two molecules.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning