What are the first four members of the alkane homologous series?

The first four members of the alkane homologous series are methane, ethane, propane, and butane. This series is characterized by a general formula of CnH2n+2, where 'n' represents the number of carbon atoms in the molecule.

Starting with methane (1 carbon atom, C1H4), it is the simplest alkane. Ethane follows with 2 carbon atoms (C2H6), then propane with 3 carbon atoms (C3H8), and finally butane, which contains 4 carbon atoms (C4H10). Each successive member of the series differs from the previous one by a -CH2- group, meaning that each has a greater number of carbon atoms and hydrogen atoms as you progress through the series.

This sequence is significant in organic chemistry as it lays the foundation for understanding the properties and reactions of larger alkanes.