Organic Definitions Flashcards
What is a carbocation?
A very reactive species with a positive charge on a carbon atom
What is a chain isomer?
Isomers in which the carbon atoms in the chai are arranged in a different pattern
Define cracking
A process by which large molecules are broken down into smaller molecules
Define dehydration
A reaction that involves the loss of a water molecule
What is an electrophile
An electron deficient species that can accept a lone pair of electrons
What is an Elimination reaction?
A reaction in which a double bond is formed as a small molecule is lost from a saturated compound
What is fractional distillation?
A process that separates the hydrocarbons present in petroleum according to their boiling points
What is a free radical?
A very reactive species with an unpaired electron
What are functional groups?
The atom or group of atoms responsible for the chemical properties of an organic molecule
What is functional group isomerism?
Isomers that have the same molecular formula but contain different functional groups
What are E Z isomers?
Isomers in which the presence of a double bond results in the different orientation of some atoms or groups of atoms within the molecules
What is a hydrocarbon?
A compound containing the elements carbon and hydrogen only
What is hydrogenation?
A reaction in which hydrogen is added to a compound
What is an intermediate?
A species that is found and used up during a reaction
What is a molecular ion?
A molecule that has gained or lost an electron
