Nomenclature of Organic Compounds Flashcards
What is the purpose of IUPAC?
To provide a universal system of naming organic molecules
Founded in 1919 by chemists for standardization.
What are the three classifications of hydrocarbons?
- Aliphatic
- Alicyclic
- Aromatic
What defines aliphatic hydrocarbons?
Carbon atoms are joined in unbranched or branched chains.
What defines alicyclic hydrocarbons?
Carbon atoms are joined in ring (cyclic) structures.
What defines aromatic hydrocarbons?
Some or all carbon atoms are found in a benzene ring.
List the three homologous series of aliphatic hydrocarbons.
- Alkanes
- Alkenes
- Alkynes
What characterizes alkanes?
Containing single carbon-to-carbon bonds.
What characterizes alkenes?
Containing at least one double carbon-to-carbon bond.
What characterizes alkynes?
Containing at least one triple carbon-to-carbon bond.
What does the stem of an organic compound name indicate?
The number of carbon atoms in the longest continuous chain.
What is the purpose of a prefix in organic compound naming?
To indicate the presence of side chains or functional groups.
What is the purpose of a suffix in organic compound naming?
To indicate functional groups.
What suffix do all alkanes have?
-ane
What is the first step in naming alkanes?
Identify the longest continuous chain of carbon atoms.
What are side chains in organic compounds called?
Alkyl groups.
How is an alkyl group formed?
By removing a hydrogen atom from an alkane parent chain.
How should alkyl groups be numbered in organic compounds?
To show their position on the parent chain.
What is the rule for determining the longest chain when multiple chains exist?
The chain with the most branches is considered the longest.
How is a cyclic alkane named differently from an aliphatic alkane?
By adding the prefix ‘cyclo-‘ in front of the stem.
What suffix do alkenes have?
-ene
What must be stated for alkenes with four or more carbon atoms?
The position of the C=C bond in the chain.
What is the first step in naming alkenes?
Identify the longest unbranched chain of carbon atoms.
What follows after identifying the longest chain in alkenes?
Identify any functional groups and alkyl side chains.
