1 - Nomenclature

Question 1

What is the empirical formula?

Answer 1

The simplest whole number ratio of atoms of each element in a compound

Question 2

What is an example of an empirical formula?

Question 3

What is the molecular formula?

Answer 3

The formula which shows the actual number of each type of atom in a compound

Question 4

What is an example of a molecular formula?

Question 5

What is a general formula?

Answer 5

An algebraic formula for a homologous series

Question 6

What is an example of a general formula, using the general formula of alkanes?

Answer 6

C₂H_2n+2

Question 7

What is the structural formula?

Answer 7

Formula that shows every atom but no bonds in a molecule

Question 8

What is an example of a structural formula, using butane?

Answer 8

CH₃CH₂CH₂CH₃

Question 9

What is the displayed formula?

Answer 9

Formula that shows all the covalent bonds and atoms present in a molecule

Question 10

What is the skeletal formula?

Answer 10

Shows the simplified organic formula, leaving just a carbon skeleton

Question 11

What is a homologous series?

Answer 11

A family of organic compounds with the same functional group and same general formula

Question 12

What are 5 characteristics of homologous series?

Answer 12

1) All contain the same functional group
2) All have the same general formula
3) Each member differs by CH₂ from the last
4) They show a gradual change in physical properties (e.g boiling point)
5) All have the same chemical properties

Question 13

What is a functional group?

Answer 13

An atom or a group of atoms which when present in different molecule causes them to have similar chemical properties