Methane (CH₄) family:

**The reasoning** Methane (CH₄) belongs to the **alkane family** because it follows the general formula CₙH₂ₙ₊₂. Let's check: for methane, n = 1, so H = 2(1) + 2 = 4. Perfect! ✓ Alkanes are hydrocarbons with **only single bonds** between carbon atoms. Look at methane's structure: one carbon connected to four hydrogens by single bonds (C—H). No double bonds, no triple bonds, no other functional groups — just pure single bonds. That's the signature of alkanes (also called the **paraffin series** or **saturated hydrocarbons**). **Why the wrong options tempt you** - **B) Alkenes** have at least one C=C double bond (like ethene, C₂H₄). Methane has no double bonds. - **C) Alkynes** contain a C≡C triple bond (like ethyne, C₂H₂). Methane has no triple bonds. - **D) Alcohols** have an —OH group (like methanol, CH₃OH). Methane has no oxygen. **Quick takeaway** If all bonds are single and the formula fits CₙH₂ₙ₊₂, you're looking at an alkane — the saturated, single-bond champions of organic chemistry!