How does the structure and bonding of alkanes differ to that of alkenes?

In alkanes, such as propane, the carbon atoms are sp3 hybridised, meaning that each carbon atom has 4 sp3 molecular orbitals associated with it available for covalent bonding. These form 4 sigma bonds (bonds formed along the direction of the bonding plane) with additional carbon and hydrogen atoms in a tetrahedral structure with bond angles of 109.5 degrees. In alkenes, such as propene, at least 2 carbon atoms are sp2 hybridised And so use 2 of their 3 available p orbitals to form 3 molecular orbitals, each of which forms a sigma bond with additional hydrogen and carbon atoms with bond angles of 120 degrees. The remaining p orbital lies orthogonal to the plane of sigma bonds, and overlaps with the adjacent carbon atoms’ p orbitals to form a pi bond between 2 carbon atoms leading to the characteristic unsaturated structure of these molecules. All other carbon atoms are sphybridised as in alkanes. 

EG
Answered by Edward G. Chemistry tutor

11890 Views

See similar Chemistry A Level tutors

Related Chemistry A Level answers

All answers ▸

Explain the relative resistance to bromination of benzene compared with alkenes.


How can you work out, using the changes in oxidation numbers, which compound out of KCl, KBr and KI has the greatest reducing power?


Why does the ionisation energy of period 2 elements increase along the period, but drop for boron and oxygen?


Describe and explain the shape and bond angle of ammonia


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning