Alkanes are a type of hydrocarbon molecule that consists of only carbon and hydrogen atoms, with only single covalent bonds between the carbon atoms. They are also known as saturated hydrocarbons because they contain the maximum possible number of hydrogen atoms that can bond to the carbon atoms in the molecule.

The simplest alkane is methane (CH4), which is the primary component of natural gas. Alkanes with longer carbon chains have higher boiling points and are more viscous, making them important components of crude oil and other fossil fuels.

Alkanes are relatively unreactive compared to other types of hydrocarbons, such as alkenes and alkynes, due to the absence of double or triple bonds in their structures. However, they can be oxidized under certain conditions to form alcohols or other functional groups.

Alkanes have a range of industrial and commercial uses, including as fuels for vehicles, heating, and electricity generation. They are also used as feedstocks for the production of a range of chemicals, such as plastics, solvents, and detergents.