Memory Aid: MEPB — The First Four Alkanes
Part of Alkanes · GCSE GCSE Chemistry revision
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
15 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!
Keep building this topic
Read this section alongside the surrounding pages in Alkanes. That gives you the full topic sequence instead of a single isolated revision point.
Practice Questions for Alkanes
What is the general formula for the alkane homologous series?
Explain why the boiling point of alkanes increases as the chain length increases.
Quick Recall Flashcards
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