What is the structural formula for ethyne?

Ethyne, commonly known as acetylene, is an alkyne, which means it features a triple bond between two carbon atoms. The structural formula for ethyne is represented as CH≡CH. In this formula, the "CH" groups indicate that each carbon atom is bonded to one hydrogen atom, and the "≡" symbol denotes the presence of a triple bond between the two carbon atoms.

Understanding the nature of the bonds is crucial here: the triple bond consists of one sigma bond and two pi bonds, resulting in a linear arrangement of the molecule. Ethyne is the simplest alkyne, and its structure is essential for various chemical reactions and applications, such as in welding and as a precursor in organic synthesis.

The other listed structures refer to different compounds: one represents ethylene (an alkene with a double bond), another is propane (an alkane with single bonds), and methane (the simplest alkane, with only single bonds). These alternatives all have different connectivity and bond types, illustrating the importance of recognizing the unique features of ethyne’s triple bond structure in nomenclature.