To determine the molecular formula of a three-carbon alkene with two double bonds, we will consider the general characteristics of alkenes and the information provided about the structure.
1. Identify the elements and their counts:
- The compound is an alkene with three carbon atoms.
- An alkene typically has the general formula [tex]\( \text{C}_n \text{H}_{2n} \)[/tex] for a single double-bonded structure. However, since this particular alkene has two double bonds, we need to adjust the formula accordingly.
2. Determine the hydrogen atoms:
- For a regular single double bond with three carbons [tex]\((n = 3)\)[/tex], the calculation would normally be [tex]\( \text{H} = 2n = 6 \)[/tex] hydrogen atoms. But since there are two double bonds, the hydrogen count reduces more.
- Each additional double bond typically reduces the hydrogen count by 2 because each double bond subtracts two hydrogen atoms that would be present otherwise.
3. Calculate the resulting hydrogen count:
- Starting with [tex]\(\text{C}_3\text{H}_6\)[/tex] (for a single double bond), subtract 2 more hydrogen atoms for the second double bond.
Thus, [tex]\(\text{C}_3\text{H}_6 - 2 = \text{C}_3\text{H}_4\)[/tex].
4. Examine the molecular structure:
- The resulting structure has three carbon atoms and four hydrogen atoms, conforming to [tex]\(\text{C}_3\text{H}_4\)[/tex].
Given these points, the molecular formula of a three-carbon alkene with two double bonds is [tex]\( \text{C}_3 \text{H}_4 \)[/tex].
Therefore, the correct answer is:
A. [tex]\( \text{C}_3 \text{H}_4 \)[/tex]
