C5H10

C5H10 is the molecular formula for a class of hydrocarbons containing five carbon atoms and ten hydrogen atoms. According to the degree of unsaturation calculation (DoU = (2C + 2 − H)/2), C5H10 has a DoU of 1, meaning these compounds have one unit of unsaturation: either one carbon–carbon double bond or one ring, or an equivalent arrangement.

The isomeric family includes acyclic alkenes (pentenes) such as pent-1-ene and pent-2-ene (the latter with cis- and trans- forms), and branched alkenes such as 2-methyl-1-butene, 3-methyl-1-butene, and 2-methyl-2-butene. It also includes cyclopentane, a saturated cyclic hydrocarbon with the same formula. In total, C5H10 has several constitutional isomers and stereoisomers, all sharing the same empirical formula but differing in connectivity and geometry.

In industry and nature, C5H10 compounds appear in petroleum fractions (the C5 fraction) and as feedstocks for the production of fuels, solvents, and fine chemicals. The alkenes readily undergo addition reactions typical of activated hydrocarbons, while cyclopentane serves as a nonpolar solvent and a chemical building block.

Safety and handling: C5H10 hydrocarbons are generally flammable and can form flammable vapour–air mixtures. They should be stored away from heat sources and ignition risks, used in well-ventilated areas, and handled with appropriate protective equipment.