Final answer:
The family of compounds with carbon-carbon double bonds is known as the alkene family, characterized by the molecular formula CnH2n.
Step-by-step explanation:
The alkene family, a crucial subset of hydrocarbons, is defined by the presence of carbon-carbon double bonds. These compounds exhibit a distinctive molecular formula of CnH2n, where 'n' represents the count of carbon atoms within the molecule. This general formula emphasizes the double bond's impact on the hydrogen content, with each double bond necessitating the subtraction of two hydrogen atoms. Ethene (C2H4) stands as the simplest member of the alkene family, featuring a single carbon-carbon double bond.
The hallmark of alkenes is the presence of a double bond, denoted as C=C, between adjacent carbon atoms. This double bond introduces a degree of unsaturation, as it can accommodate additional atoms or groups. The structural implications of the double bond contribute to the distinctive reactivity of alkenes. They readily undergo addition reactions, where atoms or groups are added across the double bond, contrasting the behavior of alkanes, which primarily undergo substitution reactions.
Alkenes play a pivotal role in organic chemistry, serving as building blocks for various compounds. Their reactivity and versatility make them essential in the synthesis of polymers, pharmaceuticals, and a myriad of organic products. Understanding the alkene family's structural characteristics and chemical behavior is fundamental to unraveling the complexities of organic chemistry and designing diverse molecular structures.