The general formula for the homologous series of alkanes is CnH2n+2\text{C}_n\text{H}_{2n+2}CnH2n+2.
A molecule of an alkane contains 24 hydrogen atoms. Determine the number of carbon atoms in this molecule.
A hydrocarbon has the molecular formula C8H16\text{C}_8\text{H}_{16}C8H16. Explain why this hydrocarbon is not an alkane.
Crude oil contains a very large number of different compounds. Explain why so many different carbon compounds exist.