What is Aliphatic Compounds , Extraction of Aliphatic Hydrocarbons , Classification , Uses of aliphatic compounds ?

Aliphatic Compounds:

Aliphatic compounds are compounds in which the first and last carbon are not connected, it is in open chain. In this, two structures are possible. One is open chain and another one is branched chain.

Extraction of Aliphatic Hydrocarbons

Aliphatic compounds get extracted by the process of pressurized fluid extraction (PEE) in which the organic solvents are used. From solid and semi-solid environmental samples, steam is used to obtain aliphatic hydrocarbons.

Classification:

Aliphatic compounds are classified as

• Saturated hydrocarbon
• Unsaturated hydrocarbon

Saturated hydrocarbon

The general formula is C_nH_2n+1. All the carbon atoms in the compound are attached by single bond. There is no π bond here and so it is less reactive.

Example : CH₃-CH₂-CH₃

Saturated hydrocarbons are alkanes. It has general formula C_nH_2n+1. All the carbon atoms in the alkane are single bond only.

Unsaturated hydrocarbon

The general formula is C_nH_2n or C_nH_2n-2.  The carbon atoms are attached by two or more bonds. It has π bond and it is highly reactive.

Example : CH₂=CH-CH₃

Unsaturated hydrocarbons are alkenes and alkynes. Alkenes have the general formula C_nH_2n. The carbon atoms in alkene are attached by double bond.

Example : CH₂=CH₂

Alkynes have the general formula C_nH_2n-2. The carbon atoms in the alkynes is attached by triple bond.

Uses of aliphatic compounds:

• Many of the aliphatic compounds are flammable.
• Used as a fuel in Bunsen burner
• Acetylene is used for welding purpose.
• In conventional flame spectroscopy, aliphatic hydrocarbon is used as solvents.