Give the structural differences between saturated and unsaturated hydrocarbons with two examples each.

In saturated hydrocarbons, all hydrogen atoms and carbon atoms are bonded together with single bonds. Methane and ethane are examples of saturated hydrocarbons.

Unsaturated hydrocarbons have double or even triple bonds between the carbon atoms.

Ethene and ethyne are examples of unsaturated hydrocarbons.

To distinguish between saturated and unsaturated hydrocarbons, combustion test can be performed. A saturated hydrocarbon undergoes complete combustion and burns with blue flame. Also, it does not leave any residue behind after burning. On the contrary, a unsaturated hydrocarbon undergoes incomplete combustion and burns with yellow flame. Also, it leaves some residue behind after burning. Ethane is a saturated hydrocarbon. Thus, burns with a blue flame and does not leave residue behind. Ethene is an unsaturated hydrocarbon. Thus burns with a yellow flame and leaves some residue behind.