What is the characteristic bond type found in alkenes?

Alkenes are characterized by the presence of at least one double bond between carbon atoms in their molecular structure. This double bond consists of one sigma bond and one pi bond, which form when two carbon atoms share two pairs of electrons. The presence of this double bond distinguishes alkenes from alkanes, which only have single bonds, and alkynes, which have triple bonds.

The double bond not only affects the chemical properties and reactivity of alkenes but also determines their geometry. Alkenes exhibit a planar structure around the double bond due to the arrangement of the atoms involved, leading to the possibility of geometric isomerism (cis and trans configurations).

Understanding the role of double bonds in alkenes is crucial for predicting their behavior in chemical reactions, making this bond type essential in organic chemistry.