03/08/2026
HYDAR ACADEMIC
Hydrocarbon Classification
Lesson 1
Subject: Chemistry
Topic: Hydrocarbon Classification
Class/Form: F4
Definition
Hydrocarbons are organic compounds composed only of carbon (C) and hydrogen (H) atoms.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this lesson, students should be able to:
>Define hydrocarbons.
>Classify hydrocarbons into different types.
>Give examples of each type. Hydrocarbons
Hydrocarbons are classified into two main groups:
1. Acyclic (Aliphatic) Hydrocarbons (Open Chain)
Hydrocarbons with an open-chain structure.
A. Saturated Hydrocarbons (Alkanes)
Contain only single C–C bonds.
General Formula: CₙH₂ₙ₊₂
Example: Ethane (C₂H₆)
B. Unsaturated Hydrocarbons Contain one or more multiple bonds.
(i) Alkenes
Contain at least one C=C double bond.
General Formula: CₙH₂ₙ
Example: Ethene (C₂H₄)
(ii) Alkynes
Contain at least one C≡C triple bond.
General Formula: CₙH₂ₙ₋₂
Example: Ethyne (C₂H₂)
2. Cyclic (Closed Chain) Hydrocarbons
Hydrocarbons with ring (closed-chain) structures.
A. Alicyclic (Carbocyclic)
Contain carbon atoms arranged in rings.
Example: Cyclohexane (C₆H₁₂)
B. Aromatic Hydrocarbons (Arenes)
Contain one or more benzene rings.
Example: Benzene (C₆H₆)
Summary
Hydrocarbons contain only carbon and hydrogen atoms.
They are classified into Acyclic (Aliphatic) and Cyclic hydrocarbons.
Acyclic hydrocarbons are divided into Alkanes, Alkenes, and Alkynes.
Cyclic hydrocarbons are divided into Alicyclic and Aromatic hydrocarbons.
Key Points
All hydrocarbons contain only carbon and hydrogen.
The type of bond determines the properties of the hydrocarbon.
Hydrocarbon classification helps predict chemical reactions and practical uses.
USTAAD HYDAR