What is the molecular formula of methane?

Study for the IGCSE Organic Chemistry Test. Engage with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, complete with hints and detailed explanations. Prepare effectively to excel in your exam!

Multiple Choice

What is the molecular formula of methane?

Explanation:
Methane is the simplest alkane, so its formula shows one carbon atom bonded to four hydrogens. Carbon forms four covalent bonds, and hydrogen provides one bond each, giving the molecular formula CH4. In the family of alkanes, the general formula is CnH2n+2, and with n = 1 you get CH4. The other formulas correspond to larger alkanes with more carbons (two, three, or four), but methane remains CH4.

Methane is the simplest alkane, so its formula shows one carbon atom bonded to four hydrogens. Carbon forms four covalent bonds, and hydrogen provides one bond each, giving the molecular formula CH4. In the family of alkanes, the general formula is CnH2n+2, and with n = 1 you get CH4. The other formulas correspond to larger alkanes with more carbons (two, three, or four), but methane remains CH4.

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