Which of the follwing alkenes was called olefiant gas?

Options

A. `CH_(2)`
B. `C_(2)H_(4)`
C. `C_(3)H_(6)`
D. `C_(4)H_(8)`

Answer

B

Explanation

Unlike alkanes that can have a member with a single `C` atoms `(CH_(4))`, the simplest alkene must have two carbons: `H_(2)C=CH_(2)` (ethene or ethylene). An old name of alkenes that is still often used is the name olefins. Ethene (ethylene), the simplest olefin (alkene), was called oldfiant gas (Latin: oleum, oil+facere, to make) beacuse ethene `(C_(2)H_(4))` reacts with chlorine or bromide to form a liquid (oil).