Chemistry 11 · Chemistry · Lesson 9.3
Alkenes and alkynes
- Level
- Grade 11
- Reading time
- 12 min reading
- Review
- Last reviewed 2026-09-03
- Standard
- Accuracy standard
- Errata
Abstract
Double and triple bonds, naming and cis-trans isomerism.
Concept preview
What you will be able to do
- 01Distinguish saturated from unsaturated hydrocarbons
- 02Name and write formulas for alkenes and alkynes
- 03Explain addition reactions and the test for unsaturation
An alkane is saturated: every carbon holds as many hydrogens as possible. If a molecule contains a carbon-carbon double or triple bond, it holds fewer hydrogens and is called unsaturated. Unsaturation is where much of organic reactivity lives, because a multiple bond can open up and add new atoms. The two main families of unsaturated hydrocarbons are the alkenes and the alkynes.
School Plan
Alkenes and alkynes
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