Decenes

Decenes are a class of organic compounds that are hydrocarbons with the chemical formula C10Hn, characterized by the presence of at least one carbon-carbon double bond within a ten-carbon chain. The general formula for a decene with one double bond is C10H20. The position of the double bond determines the specific isomer. For example, 1-decene has the double bond at the first carbon atom, while 5-decene has it at the fifth. Isomerism also arises from the geometric arrangement of substituents around the double bond, leading to cis and trans forms for internal decenes.

Decenes are alkenes and share the typical reactivity of this functional group. They readily undergo addition reactions, such as hydrogenation to form decanes, halogenation, and hydrohalogenation. Polymerization is a significant application, where decenes can be copolymerized with other monomers to produce various plastics and synthetic materials. They are also used as intermediates in the synthesis of other organic chemicals, including surfactants and lubricants. Decenes can be produced through the cracking of petroleum fractions or through oligomerization of smaller alkenes like ethylene. Their physical properties, such as boiling point and density, vary depending on the specific isomer.