Natures Chemistry Flashcards
Definition of homologous series
Same general formula, similar chemical properties
Elements in a hydrocarbon
Hydrogen and Carbon
Describe a saturated and unsaturated compound
Saturated compounds contain C-C single bonds
Unsaturated compounds contain C=C double bonds.
Test for saturation
If a compound is unsaturated it will decolourise bromine water.
Definition of an isomer
same molecular formula, different structural formula
Properties of alkanes, alkenes and cycloalkanes
Alkanes - saturated hydrocarbons, insoluble in water and commonly used as fuels.
Alkenes - unsaturated hydrocarbons, insoluble in water and commonly used to make polymers.
Cycloalkanes - Saturated, cyclic hydrocarbon, insoluble in water and commonly used as fuels or solvents.
General formula of alkanes, alkenes and cycloalkanes
Alkanes - CnH2n+2
Alkenes - CnH2n
Cycloalkanes - CnH2n
Describe an addition reaction
When 2 or more molecules join together to form a larger one
The reaction involves breaking C=C double or triple bonds
Types of addition reactions
Hydrogenation - reaction between an alkene and H2 forming an alkane.
Hydration - reaction between an alkene and water/H2O forming an alcohol.
Alkenes reacting with halogens forming dihaloalkenes
Uses of alchohols
Fuels - alcohols are very flammable and they burn with a clean flame.
Solvents - substances which may not be soluble in water may be in alcohol.
Properties of alcohols
Small alcohols are soluble in water, after 4 carbons their solubility decreases.
As alcohols increase in size their mp/bp increases as their intermolecular force increases
What is the functional group in alcohols
Hydroxyl (-OH)
Uses of carboxylic acids
Uses in the preparation of preservatives, soap and medicines
Properties of carboxylic acids
Small carboxylic acids (up to 4 carbons) are soluble in water, any bigger are insoluble.
As you add more carbons the mp/bp increases due to the increasing strength in intermolecular forces.
Functional group for carboxylic acids
Carboxyl - (-COOH)
