The correct answer is $\boxed{\text{alkanes}}$.
Alkanes are a type of hydrocarbon that is made up of carbon and hydrogen atoms that are only connected by single bonds. They are the simplest type of hydrocarbon and are often referred to as “paraffins”. Alkanes are nonpolar and have a low melting point and boiling point. They are also very stable and are not easily reactive.
Alkanes are found in petroleum and natural gas. They are also used as solvents, lubricants, and fuels.
The other options are incorrect because they do not describe a compound with only single bonds between carbon atoms.
- Alkenes are hydrocarbons that have at least one double bond between carbon atoms.
- Alkynes are hydrocarbons that have at least one triple bond between carbon atoms.
- Benzene is a hydrocarbon that has a ring of six carbon atoms with alternating single and double bonds.