Organic Definitions Flashcards
Define molecular formula
The actual number of atoms of each element present in a molecule
Define general formula
The simplest algebraic formula of each member in a homologous series
define empirical formula
The simplest whole number ratio of atoms of each element in a compound
Define structural formula
Shows the arrangement of atoms in a compound
Uses smallest amount of detail possible
Define displayed formula
Shows the arrangement of atoms and the bonds between them
Define aliphatic
Carbon atoms arranged in straight, branched or unbranched chains
Define alicyclic
Carbon atoms arranged in ring structures, with or without branches
Define aromatic
Carbon atoms found in a benzene (C6H6) ring
Define functional group
An atom or group of atoms responsible for the chemical properties of a compound
define hydrocarbon
A compound made up of only carbon and hydrogen atoms
Define homologous series
A family of compounds which have similar chemical properties, but each successive member differs by CH2 each time
- same general formula and functional group, trend in physical properties
Define saturated
Has only single carbon- carbon bonds
Define unsaturated
Has double carbon-carbon bonds
Define structural isomer
Compounds with the same molecular formulae but different structural formulae
define position isomer
Compounds with same molecular formulae and same functional group but functional group is in a different position
Define functional group isomer
Compounds with same molecular formulae but different functional groups
Define homolytic fission
Covalent bond is broken evenly and each atom gets one unpaired electron
Define heterolytic fission
Covalent bond is broken unevenly and one atom gets both of the electrons from the shared pair and becomes a negative ion, the other atom gets no electrons and becomes a positive ion
Define radical
An atom or group of atoms with a single, unpaired electron
Define addition reaction
2 compounds react to form a product
Unsaturated compound goes to a saturated compound
Double bond breaks and an atom/ group of atoms is added to the compound
Define substitution reaction
An atom/ group of atoms in a compound is replaced by an atom/ group of atoms
Define elimination reaction
A small molecule is removed from a larger molecule
One reactant molecule forms two products
Uses acid catalyst
Define reaction mechanism
The sequence of steps in which a reaction occurs
