The Alkanes topic explores the structure, properties and reactions of this important homologous series, building on the foundations introduced in the Introduction to Organic Chemistry unit. You will learn how to represent and name alkanes, explain how their structures influence their physical properties, and understand the processes and products of complete and incomplete combustion. You will also explore the pollutants produced when fuels are burned, their effects on health and the environment, and how cracking can be used to break larger hydrocarbons into smaller, more useful molecules.