Alkanes vs Alkenes Comparison

Part of Alkenes · Section 7 of 14

ComparisonUnit: Organic ChemistryGCSE

This comparison covers Alkanes vs Alkenes Comparison within Alkenes for GCSE Chemistry. Revise Alkenes in Organic Chemistry for GCSE Chemistry with 20 exam-style questions and 15 flashcards. This is a high-frequency topic, so it is worth revising until the explanation feels precise and repeatable. It is section 7 of 14 in this topic. Use this comparison to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.

⚖️ Alkanes vs Alkenes Comparison

Property Alkanes Alkenes
General Formula CₙH₂ₙ₊₂ CₙH₂ₙ
Bonding Single C-C bonds only C=C double bond
Saturation Saturated Unsaturated
Reactivity Unreactive Reactive
Bromine Water Stays orange Turns colourless
Main Reactions Combustion, substitution Addition reactions
Uses Fuels Making polymers, chemicals

Practice questions for Alkenes

What is the general formula for alkenes?

  • A. CnH2n+2
  • B. CnH2n-2
  • C. CnH2n
  • D. CnH4
1 markfoundation

Explain what is meant by the term 'unsaturated' when applied to alkenes.

2 marksstandard

Quick recall flashcards

What are alkenes?
Unsaturated hydrocarbons containing a C=C double bond
How are alkenes produced?
By cracking long-chain alkanes from crude oil

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