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Chapter 17: Problem 55

What kind of hydrocarbons are called aliphatic and where does the word aliphatic come from?

Short Answer

Expert verified
Aliphatic hydrocarbons are a class of organic compounds characterized by their open-chain structure, without any cyclic or aromatic ring structures. They can be further classified into alkanes (saturated hydrocarbons with single bonds), alkenes (unsaturated hydrocarbons with at least one double bond), and alkynes (unsaturated hydrocarbons with at least one triple bond). The term "aliphatic" originates from the Greek word 'aleiphar,' which means oil or fat, highlighting the historical context and the oily nature of these compounds.

Step by step solution

01

Define Hydrocarbons

Hydrocarbons are organic compounds composed entirely of hydrogen and carbon atoms. They are classified into different types based on their structure, properties, and molecular formula.
02

Introduce Aliphatic Hydrocarbons

Among various types of hydrocarbons, aliphatic hydrocarbons are a class of compounds whose molecules are characterized by an open-chain structure, without any cyclic or aromatic ring structures. They can be subdivided into three major types: alkanes, alkenes, and alkynes.
03

Describe Alkanes, Alkenes, and Alkynes

Alkanes are saturated hydrocarbons with single bonds between carbon atoms. Their general molecular formula is \(C_nH_{2n+2}\). Alkenes, also known as unsaturated hydrocarbons, have at least one double bond between carbon atoms. The molecular formula for alkenes is \(C_nH_{2n}\). Alkynes have at least one triple bond between carbon atoms, and their general molecular formula is \(C_nH_{2n-2}\).
04

Explain the Origin of the Word 'Aliphatic'

The term "aliphatic" originates from the Greek word 'aleiphar,' which means oil or fat. This term was used because the aliphatic hydrocarbons were initially discovered in the form of fats and oils. The root word 'aleiphar' highlights the historical context and the oily nature of these compounds. In conclusion, aliphatic hydrocarbons are a class of compounds with open-chain structures that can be further classified into alkanes, alkenes, and alkynes. The term "aliphatic" is derived from the Greek word 'aleiphar,' which refers to oils and fats.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

The alkanes containing one, two, three, and four carbons are gases at room temperature. However, as alkanes get larger, they become liquids and then solids at room temperature. Why?

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