Hydrocarbons are organic compounds composed of only hydrogen and carbon atoms. They are the main components of fossil fuels like petroleum and natural gas. These versatile compounds are used in various applications such as fuel for vehicles, heating, and electricity generation. Hydrocarbons can be classified into different groups such as alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, and aromatic hydrocarbons based on their molecular structure. The carbon atoms in hydrocarbons can form single, double, or triple bonds with other carbon atoms, leading to a wide range of compounds with different properties. Understanding the properties and reactions of hydrocarbons is essential in the fields of chemistry, energy production, and environmental studies.