A hydrocarbon is a type of organic compound made up of hydrogen and carbon atoms. These compounds are the primary components of fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas, which are used for energy and heating. Hydrocarbons can be found in various forms, including gases, liquids, and solids, and they play a crucial role in our daily lives, from fueling vehicles to providing electricity. There are two main categories of hydrocarbons: aliphatic and aromatic. Aliphatic hydrocarbons can be straight or branched chains, while aromatic hydrocarbons contain a ring structure with alternating double bonds. Understanding hydrocarbons is essential for fields like chemistry, environmental science, and energy production.