Organic 1: Introduction Flashcards
What is an empirical formula?
The simplest ratio of each element in a compound
What is the molecular formula?
The actual number of atoms of each element present in a compound
What is a structural formula?
The arrangement of atoms in a molecule in a simplified form, without showing all the bonds
What is the displayed formula?
Every atom and every bond in a molecule
What is the skeletal formula?
Straight lines represent carbon-carbon bonds
No hydrogen atoms are shown
What is a homologous series?
A family of organic compounds with the same functional group, but different carbon chain length
E.g. alkanes
What are the characteristics of a homologous series?
1) Same general formula
2) Same functional group
3) Trends in physical properties
4) Similar chemical properties
How does melting and boiling point change as carbon chain length increases?
As carbon chain length increases, melting and boiling points increase
Because there are more intermolecular forces, so stronger intermolecular forces
Which require more energy to overcome
How does chain branching affect melting and boiling point?
Chain branching reduces melting points because molecules are less compact
What are isomers?
Molecules that have the same molecular formula but whose atoms are arranged differently
What are the two main types of isomer?
Structural isomer
Stereoisomer
What are structural isomers?
Molecules that have the same molecular formula but whose atoms are arranged differently
What are the three types of structural isomerism?
1) Chain isomerism
2) Position isomerism
3) Functional group isomerism
What is chain isomerism?
When isomers have a different arrangement of the hydrocarbon chain, such as branching
What is position isomerism?
When isomers have the same functional group attached to the main chain but at different points
