ORGANIC CHEMISTRY Flashcards
Define “organic molecule”.
An organic molecule is a molecule that contains carbon atoms.
What’s the difference between an organic compound and inorganic compound?
An organic compound is a compound found in PLANTS AND ANIMALS that all contain carbon.
An inorganic compound is a compound found in nature [e.g. cyanide ion (CN^-) that also contain carbon BUT can EXIST INDEPENDENTLY OF PLANTS AND ANIMALS.
Define the term “allotropes”.
Allotropes are two or more physical forms in which an element can exist.
What factors make the carbon molecule unique? (5)
- They’re able to catenate (form long bonds with them selves).
- Carbon atoms form covalent bonds with LOW electronegativity differences.
- Quite a strong covalent bond forma between two carbon atoms.
- They can bond SYMMETRICALLY with four other atoms.
- Carbon compounds are NOT extremely REACTIVE under ordinary conditions.
Define “molecular formula”.
A molecular formula is a chemical formula that indicates the type of atoms and the correct number of each (atom) in a molecule.
E.g. C4H8O (Butanone Butyraldehyde)
Define “structural formula”.
A structural formula of a compound shows which atoms are attached to which within the molecule.
Atoms are represented by their chemical symbols and lines are used to represent ALL the bonds that hold the atoms together.
Define “hydrocarbon”.
An organic compound that consists of only hydrogen and carbon atoms.
Define “condensed structural formula”.
A type of notation that shows the way in which atoms are bonded together in the molecule but DOES NOT SHOW ALL BOND LINES.
Define “homologous series”.
A series of organic compounds that can be described by the same general formula OR in which one member differs from the next with a CH2 group.
Define “saturated compounds”.
Saturated compounds are compounds in which there are only single bonds/no multiple bonds between C atoms in their hydrocarbon chains.
Define “unsaturated compounds”.
Unsaturated compounds are compounds with one or more multiple bonds (double/triple covalent bonds) between adjacent C atoms in their hydrocarbon chains that have the potential to be broken to form single bonds.
Define “functional group”.
A bond or an atom or a group of atoms that determines the physical and chemical properties of a group of organic compounds.
What does “IUPAC” stand for?
International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry.
What is a “functional group”?
A functional group is a group of atoms responsible for the characteristic reactions of a particular compound - they form the centre of chemical activity in the molecule.
What is a “homologous series”?
A homologous series is a sequence of similar hydrocarbon compounds with the same functional group, similar chemical properties in which members differ by —CH2 in their molecular formula and they obey the same general formula.
