What is the chemical formula for Propane?

The chemical formula for propane is C3H8, which indicates that each molecule of propane is composed of three carbon atoms and eight hydrogen atoms. Propane is an alkane, which is a type of hydrocarbon that follows the general formula CnH2n+2. For propane, when n equals 3, the formula yields C3H8. This structure defines propane's properties as a fuel, which is commonly used in heating, cooking, and as a fuel for vehicles.

By analyzing the other options, one finds that C2H6 corresponds to ethane, which has two carbon atoms, while C4H10 is butane, comprising four carbon atoms. Lastly, C3H6 represents propene, an alkene with a double bond between carbon atoms, rather than the single bonds found in propane. Thus, the correct formula accurately represents the structure of propane and its classification as a saturated hydrocarbon.