Question

Why are cycloalkanes useful?

Answer 1

Well, they are another hydrocarbon solvent, and of course they can be used as fuels.........

Explanation:

The general formula of a cycloalkane is `C_nH_(2n)`, i.e. cycloalkanes have one degree of unsaturation; the `C-C` ring junction reduces the hydrogen count by TWO. And thus, while a linear alkane has formula `C_nH_(2n+2)`, cycloalkanes have the given formula.

Now of course cycloalkanes can be used a fuel. As a chemist, the principle use of cyclohexane, `C_6H_12`, is as a solvent. Cyclohexane has a relatively high melting point of `6.47` `""^@C`.

We can dissolve a known mass of organic compound in cyclohexane, and then measure the melting point using a Beckmann differential thermometer. The difference in melting point of the cyclohexane solution and the pure solvent, is proportional to the number of species in solution. The molecular weight IN SOLUTION of an unknown material may thus be determined. And this is a way to find a molecular weight that may have been done 200 years ago.