International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) Chemistry Practice Exam

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $4.99 payment

Prepare for the IGCSE Chemistry Exam with our comprehensive quiz. Practice with multiple choice questions and detailed explanations to boost your understanding. Excel in your examination journey!

Start Multiple Choice Practice Test
Start Flash Cards

Practice this question and more.

What is the displayed formula of ethane?

  1. CH4

  2. C2H6

  3. C3H8

  4. C4H10

The correct answer is: C2H6

The displayed formula of ethane is represented as C2H6. Ethane is an alkane with two carbon atoms. In its molecular structure, each carbon atom forms single bonds with hydrogen atoms. Specifically, each carbon atom in ethane bonds to three hydrogen atoms to achieve a stable electronic configuration, resulting in a total of six hydrogen atoms for the two carbon atoms combined (C2H6). Understanding the structure of ethane is essential in organic chemistry, as it serves as a fundamental example of a saturated hydrocarbon. Other options do not correctly represent ethane: CH4 represents methane (one carbon), C3H8 represents propane (three carbons), and C4H10 represents butane (four carbons). Thus, C2H6 is the only option that accurately reflects the composition and structure of ethane.

More Questions Like This