Write molecular formulas for each bicycloalkane, given its number of carbon atoms. (a) Hydrindane (9 carbons) (b) Decalin (10 carbons) (c) Norbornane (7 carbons)

Organic chemistry is a branch of chemistry that deals with the study of carbon-containing compounds, primarily hydrocarbons and their derivatives. The carbon atom is unique due to its ability to form strong covalent bonds with other carbon atoms, leading to a vast array of molecular structures, including chains, rings, and complex frameworks like those seen in bicycloalkanes.

Compounds like hydrindane, decalin, and norbornane are subclasses of organic molecules called bicycloalkanes. They are characterized by having two or more carbon rings that are fused together, forming a rigid, bicycle-like structure. Bicycloalkanes have unique chemical and physical properties that make them interesting subjects for study in organic chemistry.

In organic chemistry, the molecular formula represents the number and type of atoms in a molecule. Determining the molecular formula is crucial for understanding the compound's structure and properties. The process typically involves counting the atoms of each element within the compound.

For bicycloalkanes, the general formula can be modified because of their unique structure. These compounds usually have two fewer hydrogens than their alkane counterparts due to the 'bridging' of carbon atoms. Consequently, the molecular formulas must reflect these deviations from standard alkane formulas. The formula for determining the number of hydrogen atoms in a bicycloalkane, as seen in the exercise solutions, takes into account the two fewer hydrogens needed to account for the bridged structure.

Hydrocarbon structures form the backbone of organic chemistry. These structures consist solely of carbon and hydrogen atoms. Bicycloalkanes are a specific type of hydrocarbon, where carbon atoms form two or more interlocking rings. The structural formula reveals the arrangement of the carbon atoms and the associated hydrogens.

The exercise provided involved identifying the molecular formulas for bicycloalkanes, showcasing a method to account for the unique way these rings are connected. Understanding bicycloalkane structures requires an appreciation of the concept of 'saturation.' Alkanes are saturated hydrocarbons, meaning they have the maximum number of hydrogen atoms bonded to carbon. Conversely, bicycloalkanes are 'unsaturated' due to their ring structures, which result in having fewer hydrogen atoms than an equivalent linear alkane.