Module 4 - core organic chemistry Flashcards
What is the general formula for all alcohols?
Cn H2n+1 OH
Define functional group
Group of atoms in a molecule which is responsible for the reaction
What are the three main types of organic reactions
Substitution
Elimination
Addition
What are the three main organic reaction mechanisms
electrophile (likes electrons/negative charges)
nucleophile (like positive charges)
radical (unpaired electron, ver aggressive)
What are electrophiles
electron pair acceptors
what are nucleophiles
electron pair donors
define hydrolysis
breaking of covalent bonds by reaction with water
define condensation
reaction in which two molecules combine to form a larger one and in which water or anoter small molecule is formed (lost)
Define alkanes
saturated hydrocarbons
What is the formula for alkanes?
CnH2n+2
Why do branched isomers have lower boiling points than unbranched?
less surface area of contact
weaker london forces
less energy required to overcome london forces
Define homolgues series
group of compounds with the same general formula but a different fuctional group
Differ by a CH2 group
Define aliphatic
a hydrocarbon joined together in straight chains, branched chains or non aromatic rings
Define alicyclic
an aliphatic compound containing a benzene ring
Define cycloalkane
a cyclic alkane e.g. cyclohexane
Define radical
species with an unpaired electron
Define homolytic fission
each atom receives one bond electron, radicals are formed
Define heterolytic fission
one atom receives both bond electrons, ions are formed
What do full headed curly arrows show?
Movement of a pair of electrons
What do half headed arrows show?
movement of a single electron
Define alkene
Unsaturated hydrocarbons
What is the general formula for alkenes?
CnH2n
How are alkenes prepared?
from alcohols by elimination reaction or from crude oil
What do double bonds have that make them a good target for electrophillic addition?
High electron density
