Organic Chemistry Flashcards
What are the properties of carbon-carbon bonds?
- Relatively strong and non-polar
- Carbon can form four covalent bonds
- Carbon-hydrogen bonds are also relatively strong
What is empirical formulae?
The simplest ratio of the number of atoms of each element present in a compound
What is molecular formulae?
The actual number of atoms of each element present in a compound
What is displayed formulae?
Shows every atom and every bond present in a compound
What is structural formulae?
Does not show all bonds present but shows the unique arrangement of atoms in a compound
Read notes on how to name compounds
Done!
What do all organic compounds with the same functional group do?
React in the same way regardless of the length of the carbon chain
What is a homologous series?
A series of chemically similar compounds which conform to a general formula. Each member differs by a CH2 and all members show a gradation in physical properties
What are the properties of a homologous series?
Fill in
Read textbook p91 on isomerism
Done!
What are the properties of alkanes?
- Saturated hydrocarbons
- Low reactivity
- Used in fuels and lubricants
- Main source is crude oil
What is the general formula of alkanes?
CnH2n+2
What is the general formula for cycloalkanes?
CnH2n
What are the physical properties of alkanes?
Polarity: Almost non-polar because of electronegatives of carbon and hydrogen are so similar
Intermolecular forces: weak van der Waals
Boiling points: Increase as the molecule gets larger
When we reach a chain length of 18 carbons the hydrocarbons become solid with a waxy feel
Branched chains have lower boiling points because they cannot pack together as closely so the van der Waals forces are weaker
Solubility: Insoluble in water because water molecules are held together by hydrogen bonds which are much stronger than van der Waals forces
Will mix well with other non-polar liquids
Reactivity: Relatively unreactive
Do not react with acids, bases or oxidising and reducing agents but will burn and react with halogens under suitable conditions
How is crude oil formed?
From the breakdown of plant and animal remains at high temperatures and pressures
Formed very slowly so it is effectively non-renewable
