To determine the number of carbon atoms in pentane, we need to consider the molecular formula of pentane. Pentane is an alkane, which is a type of hydrocarbon.
The general formula for alkanes is CₙH₂ₙ₊₂, where "ₙ" represents the number of carbon atoms. In the case of pentane, the prefix "pent-" indicates that there are five carbon atoms in the molecule. The name "pentane" itself is derived from "pent," which means five.
Thus, pentane has the molecular formula C₅H₁₂, indicating it contains 5 carbon atoms.
Therefore, the correct answer is:
5
