How to Write the Formula for Ethane

The formula for ethane is one of those you need to know by memory. Ethane is an alkane with a molecular formula of C2H6.

We can also represent the formula as a Lewis dot structure which shows us the distribution of atoms and electrons around the central carbon.

Ethane’s formula follows the general pattern for alkanes. Alkanes are hydrocarbons and made up of Carbon and Hydrogen atoms.
All alkanes, including ethane, follow the formula CnH2n+2. The n is the number of carbons. So for ethane we have

C2H2(2) +2 or C2H6.

That’s the chemical formula for ethane. I recommend that you commit C2H6 to memory since it is often used in examples and problems.

[BhushanWagh-kw]

Why carbon atom not making 4 single bonds with another carbon atom rather than any hydrogen atoms

[arpanmandal]

Then why don't we can use the simplest number I.e.CH3