What is the general formula for alkanes?

The general formula for alkanes is CnH2n+2. Alkanes are saturated hydrocarbons, meaning each carbon atom is bonded to the maximum number of hydrogen atoms possible without forming double or triple bonds. In this formula, "n" represents the number of carbon atoms in the molecule. Specifically, for every carbon atom (n), there are two hydrogen atoms plus an additional two hydrogen atoms that account for the single bonds that saturate the carbon structure.

As the number of carbon atoms increases, the number of hydrogen atoms increases proportionally according to this formula. For example, with one carbon (n=1), the alkane is methane (CH4); with two carbons (n=2), it is ethane (C2H6); and so on. This consistent addition of hydrogen atoms maintains the saturated structure characteristic of alkanes.

The other options provided do not accurately represent the formula for alkanes. For instance, CnH2n indicates an unsaturated hydrocarbon (alkene) where double bonds reduce the number of hydrogen atoms. CnH2n-2 suggests a loss of hydrogen atoms that would imply the presence of rings or double bonds, while CnH2n+1