A concept problem on organic chemistry

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Alkanes, classified as saturated hydrocarbons, are generally considered unreactive but do undergo combustion when reacting with oxygen. This combustion process raises questions about their reactivity, especially since even large, unreactive compounds like polythene can combust. The discussion highlights the role of activation energy in these reactions. While some sources claim alkanes do not react with acids, alkalis, or dehydrating agents, others argue that alkanes are reactive, particularly in free radical processes such as combustion. This contradiction leads to confusion about the chemical stability of alkanes compared to other compounds like noble gases and PTFE. The conversation emphasizes the need for clarification on the reactivity of alkanes in various chemical contexts.
jeremy22511
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Alkanes are saturated hydrocarbons which are very unreactive.
However, they undergo combustion, i.e. they react with oxygen. Why?

(Even compounds as unreactive as polythene with over thousands of carbon atoms per molecule undergoes combustion...)
 
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Perhaps look into activation energy or similar?
 
Why says alkanes aren't reactive? Alkanes are fairly reactive, or we'd use PE instead of glassware in the lab.

Noble gases are unreactive. Nitrogen is fairly unreactive. PTFE is fairly unreactive. But alkanes? No. They react with all sorts of things.
 
But my textbook says they don't react with acids, alkalis, dehydrating agents, O.A., R.A. etc. It was this that gave me the idea that alkanes are chemically stable...
Can anyone help me? Thanks.

J
 
Fire is a free radical process and alkanes DO undergo free radical reactions.
 

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