FUNCHEM 21 - Introduction to Organic Chemistry I Flashcards
Why are organic compounds so important?
Organic compounds are essential for 2 reasons:
- provides the constituents of living matter (DNA, proteins, carbs)
- provides energy by conversion to CO2
List the differences between Organic Molecules & Inorganic Molecules
Organic Molecules: 1. covalent bonds 2. poorly soluble in water 3. relatively low melting and boiling points Inorganic Molecules: 1. ionic bonds 2. extremely soluble in water 3. relatively high melting and boiling points
Define a sigma bond.
A sigma bond is a covalent bond formed by the head-to-head overlap of two atomic orbitals on adjacent atoms.
Define a pi bond.
A pi bond is a covalent bond formed by the side-to-side overlap of two atomic orbitals on adjacent atoms. A pi bond can only form after a sigma bond has already formed. It is only part of a double or triple bond.
Define a polar covalent bond.
A polar covalent bond is the unequal sharing of an electron between two atoms due to the electronegativity of one atom being greater than the other. Electronegativity increases as you move right on the periodic table and decreases as you move down on the periodic table.
Define functional group.
A functional group is an atom or group of atoms within a molecule that have a characteristic set of physical or chemical properties that define the molecule.
Define a hydrocarbon.
A hydrocarbon is only made up of carbons and hydrogens.
Define functional group interconversion.
The conversion of one functional group to another by using an oxidizing agent.
How does the Breathalyser Test work?
The partial pressure of ethanol in exhaled breath is proportional to the blood alcohol concentration. Once the air is passed through the aqueous yellow sodium dichromate, the amount of colour change to green Cr3+ quantifies the amount of alcohol.
