Question detail
Which statement best distinguishes alkenes from alkanes?
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
MCQ
Type
practice
Style
Topic
Reactions of alkenes and alcohols (chemistry only)
Question
- A. Alkenes contain a C=C bond; alkanes contain only C-C single bonds
- B. Alkenes contain no hydrogen atoms
- C. Alkanes contain oxygen but alkenes do not
- D. Alkenes are metals and alkanes are non-metals
Answer
The correct option is Alkenes contain a C=C bond; alkanes contain only C-C single bonds. Alkenes contain a carbon-carbon double bond, while alkanes contain only carbon-carbon single bonds.
Explanation
The correct option is Alkenes contain a C=C bond; alkanes contain only C-C single bonds. This answer separates the two hydrocarbon families by bonding. Alkanes are saturated hydrocarbons with carbon-carbon single bonds only, while alkenes are unsaturated hydrocarbons because they contain a C=C bond. Both families contain carbon and hydrogen, not metals.
Common mistake
Understanding Unsaturation
Students often state that alkenes are unsaturated because they have a double bond, without mentioning the hydrogen atom difference.
Emphasize that alkenes are unsaturated specifically because they contain two fewer hydrogen atoms than the corresponding alkane.
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