A2 Paper 2 Definitions (M4 & M6) Flashcards
What is a homologous series?
A series of organic compounds having the same functional group but with each successive member differing by CH2.
What is a functional group?
An atom/group responsible for the characteristic reactions of a compound.
What are structural isomers?
Compounds with the same molecular formula but different structural formulae.
What is homolytic fission?
The breaking of a covalent bond where one electron from the bonding pair goes to each atom to form 2 radicals.
What is heterolytic fission?
The breaking of a covalent bond where both electrons from the bonding pair go to the same atom to form 2 ions.
What is a radical?
A species with an unpaired electron.
What is a curly arrow?
Movement of an electron pair.
What are stereoisomers?
Compounds with the same structural formula but with a different arrangement in space.
What is an electrophile?
An electron pair acceptor.
What is a nucleophile?
An electron pair donor.
- What is the general formula for α-amino acids?
- What functional groups are present in α-amino acids?
- NH2CH(R)COOH
- Basic amine group and acidic carboxyl group attached to the same C atom
Define optical isomerism.
Stereoisomers which are non-superimposable mirror images of one another
What is a chiral centre?
Carbon atom with four different groups attached
