Hydrocarbons

Hydrocarbons are a class of molecules comprised of carbon and hydrogen. They can range in size from one carbon atom with four hydrogen atoms (methane) to long chains and rings.

Significance for a Martian colony

The manufacturing of hydrocarbons is inevitable for a colony on Mars. As an intermediate product they are a resource to manufacture a great variety of vital products that are made from synthetic materials, such as space suits, gaskets, etc.

Hydrocarbon Molecules

Alkanes

Alkanes are non-cyclical hydrocarbons containing only single bonds between carbon and hydrogen atoms.

• Methane CH₄
• Ethane C₂H₆
• Propane C₃H₈
• Butane & Isobutane C₄H₁₀
• Pentane, Isopentane, & Neopentane C₅H₁₂

Cycloalkanes

Cycloalkanes are cyclical hydrocarbons containing only single bonds between carbon and hydrogen atoms.

• Cyclopropane C₃H₈

Alkenes

Alkenes are hydrocarbons containing at least one double carbon bond.

• Ethylene C₂H₄

Synthesis

Hydrocarbons are common in organic chemistry. They can also be produced artificially through chemical reactions.

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