| 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 |
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.
Practice questions for Alkenes
What is the general formula for alkenes?
Explain what is meant by the term 'unsaturated' when applied to alkenes.
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