The general formula of the alkanes is \({C_n}{H_{2n + 2}}\). They are insoluble in water. The names, molecular formula and the structural formula of the first eight alkanes must be learned.
Petrol and other fuels are produced from it using fractional distillation. Cracking is used to convert long alkanes into shorter, more useful hydrocarbons. More organic chemistry - AQA Alkanes ...