Understanding Saturated Hydrocarbons

* Saturated hydrocarbons have only single bonds between carbon atoms.

* The general formula for a saturated hydrocarbon (alkane) is C_nH_2n+2, where 'n' is the number of carbon atoms.

Solving the Problem

1. We know: The hydrocarbon has 8 hydrogen atoms (H₈).

2. Substitute into the general formula: Let's replace 'H_2n+2' with 'H₈':

* C_nH₈ = C_nH_2n+2

3. Solve for 'n':

* 2n + 2 = 8

* 2n = 6

* n = 3

4. The molecular formula: Since 'n' equals 3 (meaning 3 carbon atoms), the molecular formula is C₃H₈.

Therefore, the saturated hydrocarbon with 8 hydrogen atoms is propane (C₃H₈).