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Open-chain alkanes have the general formula CₙH₂ₙ₊₂. Their names are based on the number of carbons in the longest continuous chain, with numbering chosen to give substituents the lowest locants; repeated substituents and cycloalkanes follow additional naming conventions. Alkanes can be represented with line-angle, condensed, expanded, Newman, and wedge-dash drawings. Their nonpolar character makes them hydrophobic and insoluble in water. Physical state and boiling point vary with chain length and branching. Although alkanes are generally relatively unreactive, the topic introduces combustion, free-radical halogenation, and cracking, including the possibility of carbon monoxide or soot during incomplete combustion.