Organic Chemistry Definitions Flashcards
Organic molecules
Molecules containing carbon atoms
Molecular formula
A chemical formula that indicates the type of atoms and the correct number of each in molecule
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
Condensed structural formula
This notation shows the way in which atoms are bonded together in the molecule, but DOES NOT SHOW ALL bond lines
Hydrocarbon
Organic compounds that consist of hydrogen and carbon only
Homologous series
A series of organic compounds with the same functional group that can be described by the same general formula
Saturated compounds
Compounds in which there are no multiple bonds between C atoms in their hydrocarbon chains
Unsaturated compounds
Compound with one or more multiple bounds between C atoms in their hydrocarbon chains
Functional group
A bond or an atom or a group of atoms that determine(s) the physical and chemical properties of a group of organic compounds
Structural isomer
Organic molecules with the same molecular formula, but different structural formulae
Chain isomers
Same molecular formula, but different types of chains
Positional isomers
Same molecular formula, but different positions of the side chain, substituents or functional groups on the parent chain
Functional isomers
Same molecular formula, but different functional groups
Vapour pressure
The pressure exerted by a vapour at equilibrium with its liquid in a closed system
Boiling point
The temperature at which the vapour pressure of a substance equals atmospheric pressure
