An olefin, also known as an alkene, is a hydrocarbon with at least one double bond between carbon atoms. The general formula for alkenes is [tex]\( \text{C}_n\text{H}_{2n} \)[/tex].
Let's examine each given option to determine which one represents an olefin:
### Option A: [tex]\( \text{C}_2\text{H}_4 \)[/tex]
- This formula follows the pattern [tex]\( \text{C}_n\text{H}_{2n} \)[/tex] where [tex]\( n = 2 \)[/tex].
- For [tex]\( n = 2 \)[/tex], the formula becomes [tex]\( \text{C}_2\text{H}_4 \)[/tex], which matches the given formula.
- Therefore, [tex]\( \text{C}_2\text{H}_4 \)[/tex] is consistent with the alkene formula.
### Option B: [tex]\( \text{C}_2\text{H}_6 \)[/tex]
- This formula follows the pattern [tex]\( \text{C}_n\text{H}_{2n+2} \)[/tex].
- For [tex]\( n = 2 \)[/tex], the formula becomes [tex]\( \text{C}_2\text{H}_6\)[/tex].
- This is the formula for an alkane, not an alkene.
### Option C: [tex]\( \text{C}_2\text{H}_5\text{OH} \)[/tex]
- This formula represents an alcohol, specifically ethanol.
- It does not follow the general formula [tex]\( \text{C}_n\text{H}_{2n} \)[/tex] for alkenes.
### Option D: [tex]\( \text{C}_2\text{H}_4\text{O} \)[/tex]
- This formula does not match the pattern [tex]\( \text{C}_n\text{H}_{2n} \)[/tex] for an alkene.
- It appears to represent an organic compound, but not an alkene.
Based on the detailed examination of each option, the formula that represents an olefin (alkene) is:
Option A: [tex]\( \text{C}_2\text{H}_4 \)[/tex]
