Alkenes: Structure, Properties, and Reactions
Introduction to Alkenes: Definition and Importance in Organic Chemistry
Alkenes, known as olefins, are a class of hydrocarbons characterized by the presence of at least one carbon-carbon double bond (C=C). They can be represented by the general formula CnH2n, indicating that for every n carbon atoms, there are 2n hydrogen atoms. This unique structure not only alters their physical and chemical properties but also significantly contributes to their reactivity and versatility in organic synthesis.