HIGHER ALKANES Meaning and
Definition
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Higher alkanes are a class of organic compounds that fall under the broader category of alkanes or saturated hydrocarbons. Specifically, higher alkanes refer to alkanes with a larger number of carbon atoms in their chemical structure. The term "higher" implies that these alkanes have a higher molecular weight or carbon chain length compared to their lower counterparts.
Alkanes are composed exclusively of carbon and hydrogen atoms, and they exhibit a linear arrangement of carbon atoms bonded to one another. They have single bonds between adjacent carbon atoms, resulting in a saturated hydrocarbon structure. This means that each carbon atom is attached to the maximum number of hydrogen atoms possible, following the octet rule.
Higher alkanes are commonly found in various natural resources, such as crude oil, natural gas, and petroleum. They serve as important fuel sources due to their combustible nature. Furthermore, they are widely utilized in industries for the production of lubricants, solvents, and waxes.
Due to their larger carbon chain length, higher alkanes typically have higher boiling points, melting points, and viscosity compared to their lower counterparts. As a result, they are often used in applications that require higher stability, resistance to extreme temperatures, and enhanced lubricating properties.
In summary, higher alkanes are organic compounds with a greater number of carbon atoms in their structure. They possess unique chemical and physical properties that make them valuable in various industries, particularly in fuel production and as raw materials for the manufacture of different products.
Etymology of HIGHER ALKANES
The word "higher alkanes" is derived from two separate sources: "higher" and "alkanes".
The term "higher" is derived from the Old English word "heahra", meaning "taller, more elevated, or upper". In this context, it refers to the fact that "higher alkanes" are alkanes with more carbon atoms in their molecular structure compared to lower alkanes.
The word "alkanes" comes from the root "alken-" which is derived from the Greek word "álagkē", meaning "oil". Alkanes are a class of hydrocarbons, which are organic compounds consisting solely of hydrogen (H) and carbon (C) atoms. Alkanes are saturated hydrocarbons, meaning they contain only single covalent bonds between carbon atoms.
