hydrocarbons

Cultural  

1. Chemical compounds whose main feature is a long chain of carbon atoms bonded to hydrogen atoms. Hydrocarbons are organic molecules (see also organic molecule).

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Many hydrocarbons are used as fuels. Some examples of hydrocarbon fuels are the components of gasoline; methane, which is the main ingredient of natural gas; and some components of wood.

Example Sentences

Fifty years from now, people are going to be amazed that we burned these rare, useful hydrocarbons for fuel, when the sun was just sitting up there providing an essentially infinite source of energy.

From Los Angeles Times • May 14, 2026

France only generates a fraction of its electricity from hydrocarbons, thanks to its extensive nuclear power generation.

From Barron's • Apr. 29, 2026

"Such widespread coronae have implications for the removal of hydrocarbons emitted by trees, subtle tree leaf damage and could have broader implications for the health of trees, forests and the atmosphere."

From Science Daily • Apr. 21, 2026

Oil fires can also release sulphur and nitrogen oxides, which can form acids if they dissolve in rainwater, as well as other harmful hydrocarbons, metallic compounds and droplets of oil.

From BBC • Mar. 10, 2026

But food, by its very nature, contained flammable hydrocarbons.

From "The Martian" by Andy Weir