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Alkynes

Chemistry Grade 10 Difficulty 2/5

Beginning of the lesson

Structure and formula

Alkynes contain a C≡C triple bond. Open-chain compounds with one triple bond and no other unsaturation have the general formula CnH2n−2 (n≥2). The suffix -yne identifies the triple bond, and the parent chain is numbered to give it the lowest permitted locant.

Bonding and geometry

Each carbon of C≡C is approximately sp-hybridized and linear with an angle of 180°. The triple bond consists of one sigma bond and two mutually perpendicular pi bonds. The two pi systems create a region of electron density around the bond axis and make the triple bond a reactive site for addition.

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