What are hydrocarbons primarily made up of?

Hydrocarbons are organic compounds that are primarily composed of carbon and hydrogen atoms. This composition stems from the nature of hydrocarbons, which can take various forms such as alkanes, alkenes, and alkynes, where the carbon atoms can form long chains or rings, and the hydrogen atoms are bonded to these carbon structures.

The classification as hydrocarbons specifically highlights that they contain only carbon and hydrogen without including other elements. Therefore, the correct answer accurately reflects the fundamental structure of hydrocarbons. Understanding this composition is essential in fields such as organic chemistry and environmental science, as it plays a crucial role in the behavior and reactions of these compounds, influencing their uses as fuels, solvents, and raw materials in chemical manufacturing.