3 x 1 hour lessons

This module focuses on alkanes as saturated hydrocarbons. You’ll study their structure, physical properties, combustion reactions, and radical substitution mechanisms. You’ll also examine the importance of crude oil processing and industrial cracking.

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By the end of this module you will be able to: • describe the bonding and structure of alkanes • explain trends in boiling point and volatility in relation to chain length and branching • write balanced equations for complete and incomplete combustion • draw mechanisms for free radical substitution of halogens with alkanes • identify problems with radical substitution such as multiple substitution and isomer formation • explain the industrial processes of fractional distillation and cracking • understand the environmental impact of burning alkanes (e.g. CO, NOₓ, particulates)

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Edexcel Specification Points: Topic 6B – Alkanes