Which of the following is a saturated hydrocarbon?

Correct option is C

​The correct answer is (c) Ethane.

Solution:

A saturated hydrocarbon is a hydrocarbon that contains only single bonds between carbon atoms. These hydrocarbons are also known as alkanes and follow the general formula CₙH₂ₙ₊₂.

Examining the given options:

1. Benzene (C₆H₆) → Not a saturated hydrocarbon
• Benzene is an aromatic compound with alternating double bonds, making it unsaturated.
2. Acetylene (C₂H₂) → Not a saturated hydrocarbon
• Acetylene is an alkyne, containing a triple bond between carbon atoms, making it unsaturated.
3. Ethane (C₂H₆) → Saturated hydrocarbon 
• Ethane belongs to the alkane group, which contains only single bonds between carbon atoms, making it saturated.
4. Ethene (C₂H₄) → Not a saturated hydrocarbon
• Ethene is an alkene, containing a double bond, making it unsaturated.

Information Booster:

Uses of Ethane:

• Plastics, detergents, and fruit-ripening agents are manufactured using ethylene, which is derived from ethane.
• It serves as a key volatile marker for studying lipid peroxidation.
• Additionally, ethanol, acetaldehyde, and acetic acid—important components in the production of paints, varnishes, adhesives, and plastics—are also obtained from ethane.
• When liquefied, ethane can be utilized as a fuel for automobiles.