Which statement accurately describes the stability of alkenes compared to alkanes?

The statement that alkenes are less stable and more reactive than alkanes is accurate due to the presence of a carbon-carbon double bond in alkenes. This double bond creates a region of higher electron density, which makes alkenes more susceptible to reactions that can break the double bond, such as addition reactions. The pi bond of the alkene is weaker than the sigma bonds present in alkanes, as it is formed from the overlap of p orbitals rather than hybridized orbitals.

In contrast, alkanes consist only of single bonds (sigma bonds), which are generally stronger and more stable than the pi bonds in alkenes. This means that alkanes are less reactive and can withstand a wider variety of conditions without undergoing chemical change.

Understanding the reactivity and stability of these two classes of hydrocarbons is crucial in organic chemistry, as it informs how they participate in chemical reactions and their practical applications in various chemical contexts.