Question

graded qu... x 0:00:15 elapsed which of the following formulas represents an olefin (aka alkene)? a) c₂h₅oh b) c₂h₄o c) c₂h₄

Explanation:

Alkenes (olefins) have the general formula \( C_nH_{2n} \) (for non - cyclic, non - branched alkenes with one double bond) and consist of only carbon and hydrogen atoms with a carbon - carbon double bond.

• Option A: \( C_2H_5OH \) contains oxygen (it is ethanol, an alcohol), so it is not an alkene.
• Option B: \( C_2H_4O \) contains oxygen, so it is not an alkene.
• Option C: For \( C_2H_4 \), \( n = 2 \), and \( 2n=4 \), which fits the general formula of alkenes (\( C_nH_{2n} \)), and it is ethene (ethylene), an alkene.

Answer:

C) \( C_2H_4 \)