Organic Chemistry - Introduction Flashcards
what are the 4 types of formulae?
empirical , molecular , skeletal , displayed + structural
what is an empirical formula?
the simplest whole number ratio of atoms in a molecule
e.g CH₃ [ 1: 3 ]
what is a homologous series?
set of compounds with the same functional group - they have very similar properties
what are the 3 types of homologous series’?
alkanes , alcohols + alkenes
True or False: Organic compounds must contain carbon.
True
What is the general formula for alkanes?
CₙH₂ₙ+₂
What type of bond is present in alkenes?
Double bond
What is isomerism?
The phenomenon where two or more compounds have the same molecular formula but different structural formulas.
What is the functional group of alcohols?
–OH (hydroxyl group)
What is the primary difference between alkanes and alkenes?
Alkanes are saturated hydrocarbons with single bonds, while alkenes are unsaturated with at least one double bond.
Fill in the blank: The functional group of carboxylic acids is _____ .
–COOH
What is the purpose of a catalyst in organic reactions?
To speed up the reaction without being consumed in the process.
Identify the product of the complete combustion of hydrocarbons.
Carbon dioxide and water
name stems
1 carbon: meth -
2 - eth-
3 - prop -
4 - but -
5 - pent -
what does a curly arrow display
movement of a pair of electrons + formation of new bonds OR breaking of a bond
what is used to represent an unpaired electron
a dot
what is a key property of free radicals
they are very reactive
what are structural isomers?
molecules with the same molecular formula but different arrangement
