Answer to Question #291966 in Organic Chemistry for Sukhjit

Question

1.The waxy coating on the surface of apple skins contains an alkane with 27 carbon atoms. What is the molecular formula of this alkane?

2.The waxy coating that covers tobacco leaves contain a straight chain alkane having 31 carbons. How many hydrogens does this alkane contain?

Answer 1

The general formula of alkanes is C_nH_2n+2. Therefore,

a) C₂₇H₅₆

b) 64 hydrogens