1 Introduction to Organic Chemistry

Question 1

empirical formula

Answer 1

the simplest whole number ratio of atoms of each element in a compound

Question 2

molecular formula

Answer 2

the true number of atoms of each element in a compound

Question 3

general fornula

Answer 3

all members of a homologous series follow this e.g. alkanes CnH2n+2

Question 4

structural formula

Answer 4

shows structural arrangement of atoms within a molecule

Question 5

displayed formula

Answer 5

shows every atom and every bond in an organic compound

Question 6

skeletal formula

Answer 6

shows bonds of any non-carbon atoms

Question 7

homologous series

Answer 7

all follow same general formula and react in similar ways

Question 8

structural isomerism

Answer 8

same molecular formula, different structures

Question 9

chain isomerism

Answer 9

same molecular formula, different carbon chain
e.g. C4H10 CH3CH2CH2CH3 or CH3CH(CH3)2

Question 10

what happens as branching increases?

Answer 10

boiling point decreases as molecule chains can pack less tightly so aren’t as close together

Question 11

functional group isomerism

Answer 11

same molecular, different functional group
alkenes and cycloalkanes
alcohols and ethers
aldehydes and ketones

Question 12

position isomerism

Answer 12

same molecular formula but functional group is in a different position along the chain

Question 13

stereoisomerism

Answer 13

same molecular formula and structural formula but bonds arranged differently in space

Question 14

why does geometric isomerism occur?

Answer 14

both sides of the C=C bond have different groups attached and there is no rotation around the C=C

Question 15

E-Z isomers

Answer 15

E Isomers: on OPPOSITE sides of the bond
Z isomers: on the SAME side of the bond

Question 16

CIP priority rules

Answer 16

The first atom bonded to the carbon which has the HIGHER Ar is given higher priority
e.g. if Br and C bonded to a C=C, Br is given priority
if the same Ar, look to atom bonded to that one