Organic Flashcards
Define empirical formula.
A formula that shows the simplest ratio of the number of atoms of the elements present in 1 molecule of compound.
Define molecular formula.
A formula that shows the actual number of atoms of the elements present in 1 molecule of the compound.
Define structural formula.
A formula that shows how the constituent atoms of a molecule are joined together.
Define homolytic fission.
The breaking of a covalent bond such that one electron goes to each of the atoms, forming free-radicals.
Define a free-radical.
An atom or a group of atoms with an unpaired electron formed from the homolytic fission of a covalent bond and are very reactive.
Define heterolytic fission.
The breaking of a covalent bond such that both the electrons go to the same atom, forming positive and negative ions.
Define carbocation and carbanion.
A carbocation is a carbon species that carries a positive charge while a carbanion is a carbon species that carries a negative charge.
Define nucleophile.
A negatively-charged species or a species with a lone pair of electrons seeking a positively-charged region.
Define electrophile.
A positively-charged species seeking a negatively-charged region.
Define isomerism.
2 or more compounds have the same molecular formula but different arrangement of the atoms in the molecules.
Define structural isomers
Have the same molecular formula but different structural formula.
Define stereoisomerism.
Have the same molecular and structural formulae but different arrangement of their atoms in space. Consist of cis-trans and optical isomerism
Define optical isomerism.
Arises because of the ability of compounds to rotate the plane of polarisation of plane-polarized light.
Define chiral carbon.
A carbon to which 4 different groups are attached.
Define racemic mixture.
A mixture which contains equal quantities of each optical isomer.
Define an enantiomer.
A form of an optical isomer.
Define homologous series.
A family of compounds containing the same functional group and differing by a CH2 between one member and the next.
Define substitution reaction.
An atom or group of atoms replaces another.
Define addition reaction.
2 molecules combine to form a single product. Usually in unsaturated compounds where the double bond is broken to form a saturated compound.
Define elimination reaction.
involves removal of atoms or groups of atoms from 2 adjacent atoms to form a multiple bond.
Define hydrolysis reaction.
Reaction with water, catalysed by acid or base.
Define stereochemical formula.
A formula that shows the spatial arrangement of bonds, atoms and groups in molecules as a 3D formula.
