1. A hydrocarbon containing at least one triple bond between two carbon atoms.
Usage: chemistry term; also called acetylene when referring to the simplest alkyne (C₂H₂)

Examples

• Acetylene is the simplest alkyne, consisting of two carbon atoms joined by a triple bond.
• Alkynes are used in welding and cutting torches because they burn at very high temperatures.
• The student learned that alkynes have the general formula CₙH₂ₙ₋₂.
• Propyne is an alkyne with three carbon atoms and one triple bond.
• In organic chemistry, alkynes are more reactive than alkenes due to their triple bonds.