The suffix -ane indicates what type of hydrocarbon?

The suffix -ane is specifically used to denote alkanes, which are saturated hydrocarbons containing only single bonds between carbon atoms. This means that each carbon atom in an alkane is bonded to as many hydrogen atoms as possible, leading to the general molecular formula (C_nH_{2n+2}).

In alkanes, the presence of only single bonds contributes to their stability and saturation, distinguishing them from alkenes and alkynes. Alkenes, indicated by the suffix -ene, contain at least one double bond, whereas alkynes, identified by the suffix -yne, contain at least one triple bond. Aromatic compounds, on the other hand, have a distinct ring structure with delocalized electrons, often described using the suffix -ene as well for compounds like benzene, reflecting their unique bonding qualities.

The clear association of the suffix -ane with saturated hydrocarbons helps in identifying the structure and bonding of the compound being analyzed in organic chemistry.