Question detail

Which of the following statements best describes how the flammability of alkanes changes as the number of carbon atoms increases?

Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.

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At a glance

MCQ

Type

practice

Style

Topic

Carbon compounds as fuels and feedstock

Question

A. Flammability increases with larger molecules.
B. Flammability decreases with larger molecules.
C. Flammability remains the same regardless of size.
D. Flammability first increases then decreases as size increases.

Answer

The correct option is Flammability decreases with larger molecules..

Explanation

The correct option is Flammability decreases with larger molecules.. Flammability decreases with larger molecules. is correct because it directly supports the approved learning objective to recall how flammability changes with increasing molecular size. This belongs to Properties and combustion of hydrocarbons within Carbon compounds as fuels and feedstock, so the answer must use the correct organic chemistry context. The other options are incorrect when they confuse the organic family, formula type, reaction condition, product, or property being tested. Keep molecular formula, structural formula, displayed formula, and general formula distinct. Do not confuse alkanes with alkenes, saturated with unsaturated, cracking with combustion, polymers with monomers, or hydrocarbons with oxygen-containing alcohols and carboxylic acids. When formulae are used, preserve the stored notation exactly and explain the GCSE chemistry idea in words rather than using unsupported displayed-formula diagrams.

Common mistake

Flammability Misconception

Students often think that larger hydrocarbons are more flammable than smaller ones.

Remember that as molecular size increases, flammability generally decreases due to higher boiling points and increased viscosity.

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