Associate Safety Professional Practice Exam

Which of the following hydrocarbons is a triple bond type?

1. Propane

2. Ethylene

3. Sodium

4. Acetylene

The correct answer is: Acetylene

Acetylene is a hydrocarbon known for its triple bond structure, which is a defining characteristic of the molecule. It contains two carbon atoms linked by a triple bond, accompanied by two hydrogen atoms. This unique bonding arrangement results from the sharing of three pairs of electrons between the carbon atoms, which creates a very strong bond, making acetylene one of the simplest alkynes. In contrast, propane is a simple alkane consisting of single bonds between carbon atoms, while ethylene is an alkene characterized by a double bond. Sodium, although included as an option, is not a hydrocarbon but rather a metal, which makes it irrelevant when discussing hydrocarbons and their bonding types. Thus, acetylene stands out because of its distinct triple bond, emphasizing its classification within the alkyne family of hydrocarbons.