Introduction to Organic Chemistry Flashcards
What is a general formula?
An algebraic formula that can describe any member of a family of compounds.
What is an empirical formula?
The simplest ratio of atoms of each element in a compound.
What is a molecular formula?
The actual number of atoms of each element in a molecule.
What is a structural formula?
Shows the atoms carbon by carbon with the attached hydrogens and functional groups.
What is a skeletal formula?
Shows the bonds of the carbon skeleton only, with any functional groups. The hydrogen and carbon atoms aren’t drawn.
What is a displayed formula?
Shows how all the atoms are arranged, and all the bonds between them.
What is a homologous series?
A homologous series is a series of compounds with the same functional group and are represented by the same general formula. They often have similar chemical properties.
How would you recognize alkanes?
Prefix/Suffix: -ane
Example: propane CH3CH2CH3
How would you recognize branched alkanes?
Prefix/Suffix: alkyl- -ane
Example: methylpropane CH3CH(CH3)CH3
How would you recognize alkenes?
Prefix/Suffix: -ene
Example: propene CH2=CHCH3
How would you recognize haloalkanes?
Prefix/Suffix: Fluoro- Bromo- Chloro- Iodo- -ane
Example: Chloroethane CH3CH2Cl
How would you recognize alcohols?
Prefix/Suffix: -ol
Example: Ethanol CH3CH2OH
How would you recognize aldehydes?
Prefix/Suffix: -al
Example: Ethanal CH3CHO
How would you recognize ketones?
Prefix/Suffix: -one
Example: propanone CH3COCH3
How would you recognize carboxylic acids?
Prefix/Suffix: -oic acid
Example: Ethanoic acid CH3COOH