Alkynes readily undergo addition reactions with which of the following?

Alkynes readily undergo addition reactions with which of the following?

  1. Oxygen gas (O₂)
  2. Hydrogen gas (H₂) ✓
  3. Nitrogen gas (N₂)
  4. Water (H₂O)

Explanation

Alkynes easily add hydrogen gas. The triple bond breaks and hydrogen atoms attach. This reaction is called hydrogenation.

Oxygen causes combustion, not addition. Nitrogen doesn’t react easily. Water can add but requires special conditions.

Remember: Triple bonds are reactive. They break easily to form single or double bonds.