Aliphatic Compounds
Aliphatic compounds are a class of organic molecules that consist of carbon and hydrogen atoms arranged in straight or branched chains, or in rings. Unlike aromatic compounds, which have a special stability due to their ring structure and delocalized electrons, aliphatic compounds do not have this feature. They can be saturated, meaning they contain only single bonds (like alkanes), or unsaturated, which means they have one or more double or triple bonds (like alkenes and alkynes).
These compounds are commonly found in everyday substances, such as fats and oils, which are made up of long aliphatic chains. Aliphatic compounds play a crucial role in various industries, including the production of fuels, lubricants, and plastics. Their diverse structures allow for a