Basics of organic chemistry - 4 Flashcards
Define the empirical formula
Simplest whole number ratio of atoms in a molecules
What does the molecular formula mean
Provides the actual number of atoms of different elements in a molecules
What is the structural formula
It shows the arrangement of atoms in a molecules without showing every bond
Define homologous series
A series of organic compounds with the same functional group but each successive member differing by CH2
What is a functional group
A group of atoms responsible for characteristics of a compound
What is an aliphatic hydrocarbon
Hydrocarbons with carbon atoms joined together in a straight line or branched chain
what is an alicyclic hydrocarbon
Hydrocarbons arranged in non-aromatic rings with or without side chains
What is an aromatic hydrocarbon
hydrocarbons that contain at least one benzene ring
What is the general formula for alkanes
CnH2n+2
What is the general formula for alkenes
CnH2n
What is the general formula for alcohols
CnH2n+1OH
what does saturated mean
Only contains single bonds
What does unsaturated mean
Contain at least one C=C double bond
Define structural isomerism
When molecules have the same molecular formula but different structural formula
What are the three ways structural isomers can be formed
Alkyl groups in different places
Different location of functional groups
Different types of functional groups
what are sterioisomers
Organic compounds with the same structual formula but have a different arrangement in space
How is E-Z isomerism caused
Caused by the limited rotation about the C=C double bonds
How are E-Z isomers differentiated
If the two substituents with the highest atomic number are on the same side of the double bond, it is a Z isomer
If they are on different sides, it is the E isomer
What is Cis-trans isomerism
Type of E/Z isomerism where the two substituents on each carbon atom are the same
What is homolytic fission
It happens when each bonding atom receives one electron from the bonded pair forming radicals
What is heterolytic fission
When one bonding atom receives both electrons from the bonded pair
What are radicals
Highly reactive atoms or molecules with an unpaired electron
How do radicals form covalent bonds
The radicals collide and the electrons are involved on the bond formation
