Which formula corresponds to an alkane?

In organic chemistry, alkanes are a specific class of hydrocarbons characterized by their saturated nature, meaning they contain only single bonds between carbon atoms. The general formula that represents alkanes is CnH2n+2. This formula indicates that for every n carbon atoms in the molecule, there are 2n + 2 hydrogen atoms. This structure allows for the maximum number of hydrogen atoms being attached to the carbon atoms without forming double or triple bonds, maximizing saturation.

For instance, if you have 1 carbon (n=1), the formula gives you C1H(2*1+2) = CH4, which is methane, the simplest alkane. As the number of carbon atoms increases, the corresponding number of hydrogen atoms also follows the established formula, thereby maintaining the alkane structure.

The other formulas provided do not correspond to alkanes. CnH2n describes alkenes, which are unsaturated hydrocarbons with at least one double bond. CnH2n+1 represents a radical (likely alkyl groups) rather than a stable saturated molecule. CnH2n-2 is relevant for alkynes, which feature triple bonds and are also unsaturated.

Thus, understanding