What is a hydrocarbon?

A hydrocarbon is defined as a molecule that consists solely of carbon and hydrogen atoms. These compounds can be found in various forms, including alkanes, alkenes, and alkynes, depending on the bonds between the carbon atoms. The structure of hydrocarbons is fundamental to organic chemistry and forms the basis of fuels, plastics, and many other chemicals.

The characteristic of containing only carbon and hydrogen atoms distinguishes hydrocarbons from other molecular compounds that may involve additional elements like oxygen or nitrogen. Understanding this definition is crucial, especially when studying organic compounds and their reactions, which often form the basis of biological processes and the functioning of living organisms.

On the other hand, molecules that include carbon and oxygen, or carbon and nitrogen, or hydrogen and oxygen, do not fit the definition of hydrocarbons, as they incorporate elements that extend beyond just carbon and hydrogen. This distinction is vital in identifying different types of organic and inorganic compounds in chemistry.