Carbon Prefix Quick Reference
1
meth-
1 carbon
2
eth-
2 carbons
3
prop-
3 carbons
4
but-
4 carbons
5
pent-
5 carbons
6
hex-
6 carbons
Functional Group
No functional group — all single bonds (C–C and C–H)
Properties
Non-polar · low boiling points · don't react with bromine water · combustion only
Key Reaction
Complete combustion: CₙH₂ₙ₊₂ + O₂ → CO₂ + H₂O
Incomplete combustion (limited O₂) produces CO and soot (carbon).
Homologous Series
| Name | Formula | Boiling Pt | Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Methane | CH₄ | -161°C | Natural gas, fuel |
| Ethane | C₂H₆ | -89°C | Fuel |
| Propane | C₃H₈ | -42°C | LPG, camping stoves |
| Butane | C₄H₁₀ | -1°C | Lighters, BBQ gas |
| Pentane | C₅H₁₂ | 36°C | Solvent |
| Hexane | C₆H₁₄ | 69°C | Solvent |