Q1. [1] medium initial-understanding
Which of the following statements correctly explains why unsaturated carbon compounds are more reactive than saturated carbon compounds?
(A) Unsaturated compounds have more hydrogen atoms, which makes them more chemically active.
(B) Unsaturated compounds contain double or triple bonds between carbon atoms, which can participate in addition reactions.
(C) Saturated compounds have only single bonds, which makes them more reactive than double bonds.
(D) Unsaturated compounds have a higher boiling point, which increases their tendency to react.
- A Unsaturated compounds have more hydrogen atoms, making them lighter and easier to break apart.
- B Unsaturated compounds contain double or triple bonds between carbon atoms, which can participate in addition reactions.
- C Saturated compounds contain double bonds that make them rigid and resistant to reactions.
- D Saturated compounds have fewer carbon atoms and therefore fewer sites available for reaction.
Generated by claude-sonnet-4-6 · 2026-06-26 01:06 · grounding rag
Model Answer
(B) Unsaturated compounds contain double or triple bonds between carbon atoms, which can participate in addition reactions, making them more reactive than saturated compounds with only single bonds.
Explanation
The textbook (section 4.2) defines unsaturated compounds as those having double or triple bonds, and section 4.3.3 explains that these bonds allow addition reactions (e.g., hydrogenation). Examiners expect students to link double/triple bonds → addition reactions → greater reactivity. Options A, C, and D are factually incorrect as per the source.