Organic ChemistryMemory Aid
Memory Aid: MEPB — The First Four Alkanes
Part of Alkanes — GCSE Chemistry
This memory aid covers Memory Aid: MEPB — The First Four Alkanes within Alkanes for GCSE Chemistry. Topic 38: Alkanes It is section 9 of 12 in this topic. Use it for quick recall, then test yourself straight afterwards so the memory aid becomes usable in an answer.
Topic position
Section 9 of 12
Practice
20 questions
Recall
0 flashcards
🧠 Memory Aid: MEPB — The First Four Alkanes
Remember the first four alkanes using the phrase:
Many Elephants Play Badminton
- Methane — CH₄ (1 carbon)
- Ethane — C₂H₆ (2 carbons)
- Propane — C₃H₈ (3 carbons)
- Butane — C₄H₁₀ (4 carbons)
To use the general formula CₙH₂ₙ₊₂: double the number of carbons, then add 2. For propane (n=3): 2×3+2 = 8. Formula = C₃H₈. Check: 3 carbons and 8 hydrogens — correct!