What are saturated and unsaturated hydrocarbons? Explain briefly. How can we identify it?

Saturated hydrocarbons: In this type of hydrocarbons, the carbon atoms are connected by a single covalent bond. These are called alkane and general formula C_nH_2n+2 where n=1,2,3….etc. These are less reactive as they contain strong sigma bond. They do not undergo hydrogenation reaction. For example: CH₄.

Unsaturated hydrocarbons: In this type of hydrocarbons, the carbon atoms are connected by multiple bonds like double or triple bonds. The double bonded compounds are called alkene and has general formula C_nH_2n and triple bonded compounds are called alkynes and has general formula C_nH_2n-2. These are more reactive as they contain one or more pi bonds which can be easily broken. They can undergo hydrogenation reaction. For example: CH₂=CH₂ is an alkene.