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Chapter 2: Alkanes



Summary | Functional Groups | Hydrocarbons | Alkanes | Cycloalkanes | Self Assessment | Quiz |


Cycloalkanes

Chapter 2: Alkanes

In order to view some of the structures for this section, you will need the web "plug-in", "CHIME". If you do not have it already installed, you should be able to download it for free from the linked Website. CHIME is a browser that allows you to visualize and manipulate molecules as 3D structures.  Check here if you don't know how to use Chime.

Another type of molecule containing only sp3 hybridized C and H atoms connected by s bonds is possible with a ring of 3 or more C atoms.  These are the cycloalkanes which are fairly common in the world of organic chemistry, both man-made and natural.

Nomenclature:
Functional group prefix = cyclo- (review)

Physical Properties:
Like alkanes, the low polarity of all the bonds in cycloalkanes means that the only intermolecular forces between molecules of cycloalkanes are the very weak induced dipole - induced dipole forces, also known as london forces which are easily overcome.  As a result, compared to other functional groups, but like alkanes, cycloakanes tend to have low melting and boiling points.

Structure:
They have a generic formula of CnH2n, (note: there 2 less H atoms compared to the analogous alkane).
The C3 to C6 cycloalkanes are shown below in a variety of representations.
 
 

Cyclopropane
C3H6
Cyclobutane
C4H8
Cyclopentane
C5H10
Cyclohexane
C6H12
Reactivity:
Help with chime files

 



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