2.4 organic compounds

Question 1

what is a homologous series?

Answer 1

a set of compounds that have the same general formula, naming rules, and functional group and therefore similar chemical properties, but differ from their neighbour in the series by only CH2.

Question 2

what is a functional group?

Answer 2

specific groups of atoms or bonds within molecules that are responsible for the characteristic chemical reactions of those molecules.

Question 3

what is a saturated organic compound?

Answer 3

the carbon atoms are connected by carbon-carbon single bonds. they have the capacity to make more bonds.

Question 4

what is an unsaturated organic compound?

Answer 4

the carbon atoms are connected by carbon-carbon double or triple bonds. they do not have the capacity to make any more bonds.

Question 5

what is the first step in naming an organic compound?

Answer 5

count the number of carbons in the chain and choose the prefix.

Question 6

what