NB: Substitution is the major reaction alkane undergoes

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Chemical Reactions and Notes:
The following are examples of halogenation reactions, which are a type of substitution reaction that alkanes undergo.

$$\text{CH}_2\text{Cl}_2 + \text{Cl}_2 \to \text{CHCl}_3 + \text{HCl}$$ $$\text{CHCl}_3 + \text{Cl}_2 \to \text{CCl}_4 + \text{HCl}$$

• The first reaction requires ultraviolet light (U.V. light).
• Substitution is the major reaction alkanes undergo.

Uses of Alkanes and their Derivatives:

1. Methane is mainly used as fuel, either by itself or mixed with other gases.
2. Trichloromethane (chloroform) is used in surgical operations as an anaesthetic.
3. Liquified petroleum gas (LPG) used in domestic cooking is also composed of alkanes.
4. Tetrachloromethane is used as an important solvent.