4.1 - Organic Chemistry Flashcards
What is general formula?
An algebraic formula that can describe any member of a family of compounds
E.g: Cn H2n+1 OH (for all alcohols)
What is empirical formula?
The simplest whole number ratio of atoms of each element in a compound
E.g: Butan-1-ol becomes C4H10O
What is molecular formula?
The actual number of atoms of each element in a molecule
E.g: Butan-1-ol becomes C4H10O
What is structural formula?
The arrangement of atoms carbon by carbon, with attached hydrogens and functional groups
E.g: Butan-1-ol becomes
CH3CH2CH2CH2OH
What is skeletal formula?
Shows the bonds of the carbon skeleton only, with any functional groups. The hydrogen and carbon atoms aren’t shown.
What is displayed formula
Shows how all the atoms are arranged and all the bonds between them
What are the three branches of structural isomerism?
Chain isomers, positional isomers and functional group isomers
Define homolytic fission
When the bond breaks evenly and each bonding atom receives one electron from the bonded pair.
X - Y = X• + Y•
Define heterolytic fission
When the bond breaks unevenly with one of the bonded atoms receiving both electrons from tge bonded pair.
What is made in homolytic fission?
Two electrically uncharged radicals
What is made in heterolytic fission?
A cation(X-) and an anion(Y-)
What are the three stages of the reaction mechanism of free-radical substitution?
Initiation, propagation and termination
Describe each step of the reaction mechanism
Initiation - Free radicals produced
Propagation - Free radicals are used up and created in a chain reaction
Termination - Free radicals are mopped up
What is the general formula of alkenes?
CnH2n
Describe a sigma bond
When 2 s orbitals overlap in a straight line to give the highest possible electron density between the nuclei. This is a single covalent bond
