What is the general formula for cycloalkanes?

Cycloalkanes are a type of hydrocarbon that consists of carbon atoms arranged in a circular (cyclic) structure. The general formula for cycloalkanes is indeed CnH2n. This formula indicates that for every n carbon atoms in the cycloalkane, there are 2n hydrogen atoms. The reason behind this specific formula is that cycloalkanes are saturated hydrocarbons, meaning they contain only single bonds between carbon atoms.

In a cycloalkane, each carbon atom forms two bonds with adjacent carbon atoms in the ring, which reduces the number of hydrogen atoms compared to an acyclic alkane (which has the formula CnH2n+2). This key factor allows cycloalkanes to maintain saturation while ensuring that the total number of hydrogen atoms corresponds to the formula CnH2n.

This understanding of bonding and saturation is fundamental in organic chemistry as it provides insights into the structure and reactivity of various organic compounds.