Question

Why are saturated hydrocarbons generally less reactive than unsaturated hydrocarbons?

A. Atoms are not easily added to molecules with single bonds.
B. Atoms are not easily added to molecules with double bonds.
C. Saturated hydrocarbons have fewer carbon atoms than unsaturated hydrocarbons.

Answer 1

Answer: the answer is A.

Step-by-step explanation:

gradpoint said so

Answer 2

Answer: The correct answer is Option A.

Step-by-step explanation:

Saturated hydrocarbons are defined as the hydrocarbons in which single bond is present between C-C atoms. The general formula used for these hydrocarbons is
`C_nH_(2n+2)`

Unsaturated hydrocarbons are defined as the hydrocarbons which have double or triple covalent bonds present between carbon and carbon atoms. They are known as alkenes and alkynes respectively. The general formula used for these hydrocarbons is
`C_nH_(2n)` and
`C_nH_(2n-2)`

Unsaturated hydrocarbons are more reactive than the saturated ones because of the presence of
`\pi-`bonds. They are weaker than
`\sigma-`bonds and thus can be easily broken. Addition reactions is more favorable for the compounds having
`\pi-` bonds.

Saturated hydrocarbons have only
`\sigma-`bonds and thus are strong bonds and cannot undergo addition reaction easily.

Thus, the correct answer is Option A.