methane series
Definition
- Noun:
- A homologous series of saturated aliphatic hydrocarbons: The "methane series" refers to the group of organic compounds consisting only of hydrogen and carbon atoms connected by single bonds, following the general formula CₙH₂ₙ₊₂. This series is also commonly known as alkanes or paraffins.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The simplest member of the methane series is methane itself, CH₄.
- Chemists study the properties of the methane series to understand fuel combustion.
- As you move up the methane series, the compounds change from gases to liquids to solids.
Advanced Usage
- Technical Context: In organic chemistry, the term "methane series" is a traditional name for the alkane family, describing its structure where each carbon atom is bonded to four other atoms.
- The methane series exhibits a gradual change in physical properties with increasing molecular weight.
Variants and Related Words
- Alkane (n): The modern IUPAC name for any member of the methane series.
- Butane and octane are both alkanes.
- Paraffin (n): A common synonym, especially for the higher, waxy members of the series or in an industrial context.
- Paraffin wax is derived from the methane series.
- Saturated hydrocarbon (n): A broader term describing any hydrocarbon with only single bonds, which includes the methane series.
Synonyms
- Alkanes
- Paraffins
- Saturated aliphatic hydrocarbons
Related Phrases
- Homologous series: A key characteristic of the methane series, where each successive member differs by a CH₂ group.
- The methane series is a classic example of a homologous series in organic chemistry.
Noun
-
a series of non-aromatic saturated hydrocarbons with the general formula CnH(2n+2)
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