What is the ratio of carbon atoms to hydrogen atoms in a cyclic hydrocarbon?

1 Answer
anor277
Jun 15, 2016

The general formula a cycloalkane is #C_nH_(2n)#

Explanation:

Chemists speak of the degree of unsaturation with respect to a hydrocarbon.

An unsubstituted alkane has general formula #C_nH_(2n+2)#. Each degree of unsaturation, a double bond OR a ring, reduces the hydrogen count by #2# with respect to the equivalent saturated molecule. Since we compare the cycloalkane to the alkane formula, the hydrogen count is reduced by #2#.

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