How do you convert an alkane to an alkene?

To convert an alkane to an alkene, the process of dehydrogenation is utilized. This reaction involves the removal of hydrogen atoms from the alkane molecule, which results in the formation of a double bond, thus transforming the saturated alkane into an unsaturated alkene. Dehydrogenation typically requires high temperatures and sometimes a catalyst to facilitate the reaction.

This transformation not only modifies the molecular structure but also alters the properties of the compound, making it more reactive due to the presence of the double bond in the alkene. In contrast, the other processes listed do not lead to the formation of alkenes from alkanes. For example, hydrolysis pertains to the reaction of water with a substance, esterification involves forming esters from alcohols and acids, and halogenation incorporates halogen atoms (such as bromine or chlorine) into organic compounds, typically leading to the addition of halogen atoms rather than the removal of hydrogen to form a double bond. Thus, dehydrogenation is the appropriate and correct method for the conversion of alkanes to alkenes.