Algonquin College Health Program Assessment (AC-HPAT) Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT a type of hydrocarbon?

1. Alkanes

2. Alkenes

3. Alcohols

4. Alkynes

The correct answer is: Alcohols

The correct answer indicates that alcohols are not classified as hydrocarbons. Hydrocarbons are organic compounds composed solely of carbon and hydrogen atoms. They can be divided into various types based on the structure of their carbon chains. Alkanes, alkenes, and alkynes are all types of hydrocarbons where the differences lie in the types of bonds between carbon atoms. Alkanes contain single bonds, alkenes have at least one double bond, and alkynes feature at least one triple bond. These classifications highlight the diversity within the hydrocarbon family. In contrast, alcohols are organic compounds that contain one or more hydroxyl (-OH) functional groups attached to a carbon atom. While alcohols contain carbon and hydrogen, their defining feature—the hydroxyl group—means they cannot be classified as hydrocarbons. This distinction is crucial in organic chemistry, as it affects how these compounds behave and react chemically.