Why are certain compunds called hydrocarbons.write the general formula for homologus series of alkanes,alkenes and alkynes. And draw the ele tron dot formula for tne first member of each.

Long chain carbon compounds containing a backbone of carbon atoms and associated or bonded with hydrogen atoms are called hydrocarbons.

Alkanes:

• Alkanes are hydrocarbons in which all the linkages between the carbon atoms are single covalent bonds.

• General formula of alkanes: C_nH_2n+2

Alkenes:

• Alkenes are unsaturated aliphatic hydrocarbons containing a carbon-carbon double bond.

• General formula of alkenes: C_nH_2n

Alkynes:

• Alkynes are unsaturated aliphatic hydrocarbons containing a carbon-carbon triple bond in their molecule.
• The general formula of alkynes is C_nH_2n−2.