4.1.3 - Alkenes Flashcards
What are stereoisomers?
Compounds with the same structural formula but with a different arrangement in space.
What is E/Z isomerism?
An example of stereoisomerism, in terms of restricted rotation about a double bond and the requirement for two different groups to be attached to each carbon atom of the C=C group.
What is cis-trans isomerism?
A special case of E/Z isomerism in which two of the substituent groups are attached to each carbon atom of the C=C group are the same.
How do you know whether a compound is cis or trans?
When both hydrogens are on the same side of the double bond then the molecule is cis.
How can you work out whether something is an E or Z isomerism?
If the molecule with the highest atomic number on each side of the double bond is on the same side then it is Z.
How can you remember what Z and E mean?
Z = zusammen, E = entgehen.
General formula?
CnH2n
What are all alkenes?
Hydrocarbons which are unsaturated as they all contain at least one double bond.
What is a double bond made up of?
Sigma and pi bond.
When is a sigma bond formed?
When two s orbitals overlap.
How do s orbitals over lap?
In a straight line.
What does the overlapping of the s orbitals mean?
There is the highest possible electron density between the two nuclei.
What does high electron density lead to?
A strong electrostatic attraction between the nuclei and the shared pair of electrons.
Due to the strong electrostatic attraction is sigma bonds what does this lead to?
Sigma bonds having a high bond enthalpy.
How are pi bonds formed?
By the sideways overlap of two adjacent p orbitals.