Which of the following has a straight-chain structure?

Which of the following has a straight-chain structure?

  1. Benzene (C₆H₆)
  2. Pentane (C₅H₁₂) ✓
  3. Naphthalene
  4. Anthracene

Explanation

Pentane has a straight-chain structure. This means all five carbon atoms connect in a single line. Think of it like beads on a string.

Benzene, naphthalene, and anthracene all have ring structures. Their carbon atoms connect in circles, not straight lines.

Remember: Pentane belongs to the alkane family. All simple alkanes have straight-chain structures.