Organic molecules Flashcards
Define an alkane
A homologous series of saturated hydrocarbons
What is an alkane structural isomer
Same molecular formula, different structural formula
How do you name structural isomers of alkanes
Find the longest carbon chain
Name the side chain
Show which carbon the side chain is attached to
Define an alkene
An unsaturated molecule (contains a double bond)
Define a haloalkane
An alkane where one or more of the hydrogens have been replaced by a halide
Define an alcohol
Contain an OH group
Define a carboxylic acid
Contains an COOH group
Define a ketone
Contains a =O bond in the middle of the molecule
Define an aldehyde
Contains a =O and -H group on the end of the molecule
What is E-Z isomerism and how do you identify it
E-Z isomerism occurs in alkenes because they have a non-rotational double bond. Therefore if the priority groups are on the same side of the molecule, we call it Z isomerism and if they are on different sides it is called E isomerism
What is the branching effect
If the molecule contains a lot of branches, the boiling point is lower
What is the trend in boiling point and chain length in hydrocarbons
Longer chains = higher boiling points
What is the general formula for the combustion of alkanes
CnH2n+2 + O2 -> nCO2 + n+1H2O
Advantages of burning hydrocarbons for fuel
Plentiful source of energy
Cheaper than many renewable sources
Universal fuel
Efficient sources of fuel
Disadvantages of burning hydrocarbons for fuel
Carbon dioxide emissions contribute to global warming
Expensive power plants
Pollution caused by oil spills
Describe the structure of the double bond
A sigma bond between the S orbital electrons and a pi bond between the P orbital electrons which creates an area of negativity around the bond because the pi bond sticks out
Name properties and uses of haloalkanes
Low boiling point
Insoluble in water
Used as refrigerants, solvents and anaesthetics
Describe CFCs and problems associated with them
Chloro-fluorocarbons were used as propellants in aerosols for years before it was discovered they are responsible for eroding the ozone layer
Define a biofuel
A fuel grown from natural resources
Advantages of biofuels
Renewable
Carbon neutral
More economic security for countries that don’t have fossil fuels
Disadvantages of biofuels
Use of free land
Use of resources
Not completely carbon neutral because we have to build power plants and transport them etc..
How are alcohols classified
Primary - OH group joined to the end of the molecule
Secondary - OH group joined to carbon that is joined to two other carbons
Tertiary - OH group joined to carbon that is attached to three other carbons
