Organic Chemistry Flashcards
Molecular formula
Notation used to show the type and number of atoms in a molecule
Condensed structural formula
Notation used to show type and number of atoms in a molecule with groups of atoms written separately
Structural formula
Graphical representation of a molecule showing types, number of atoms and how they are bonded
Homologous series
A group of organic molecules from the same family of organic molecules that share the same general forum and have similar chemical properties
General formula of alkanes
CnH2n+2
Alkanes
Homologous series of hydrocarbons, characterised by having carbon atoms linked with single bonds. Suffix - ane.
Alkene general formula
CnH2n
Alkenes
Homologous series of hydrocarbons characterised by having carbon atoms linked with one or more double bonds. Suffix -ene.
Hydrocarbon
Molecules that contain only carbon and hydrocarbon atoms
Chemical properties of alkenes and alkanes
- Non-reactive with acids, alkalis, metals and water
- Low melting/boiling point - weak intermolecular forces
- Volatile
- Smelly
- Don’t conduct heat/electricty
- Combust easily
- Non-polar - won’t dissolve in water
Saturated
Every carbon atom has the maximum amount of atoms bonded to it. (Alkane)
Substitution reaction
When there is a saturated molecule (alkane), if another atom is to be added, one atom must be removed first. For this to occur, enough energy must be available to overcome the activation energy required to break the C-H bond.
Unsaturated molecules
Not every carbon atom has the maximum amount of atoms bonded to it because of one or more double bonds. (alkenes)
Addition reactions
When there is an unsaturated molecule (alkene), if another atom is added, the double bond can be broken into a single bond and the available site is occupied by another atom. Requires less energy to break a double bond than a C-H bond so it can proceed more easily that a substitution reaction.
Alcohols
Homologous series characterised by having the -OH functional group hydroxyl.
Solute
The solid substance being dissolved