# Explain why alkanes are described as saturated hydrocarbons.

> Edexcel GCSE Chemistry (1CH0) — 10.1 Crude oil, hydrocarbons and alkanes (Chem only) · Explain · 4 marks

> Alkanes are a homologous series of compounds found in crude oil and are widely used as fuels.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Alkanes contain only carbon and hydrogen atoms (are hydrocarbons)
2. Alkanes are described as saturated because they contain only single bonds (between carbon atoms)
3. Each carbon atom forms four bonds in total / carbon is bonded to the maximum number of hydrogen atoms possible
4. The general formula for alkanes is CₙH₂ₙ₊₂, showing the maximum hydrogen content for a given number of carbon atoms

## Key terms

- [saturated](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/saturated)
- [hydrocarbon](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/hydrocarbon)
- [alkane](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/alkane)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Edexcel GCSE Chemistry (1CH0)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

---
Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-why-alkanes-are-described-as-31ccebd3) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.