Basic Concepts of Organic Chemistry Flashcards
What is a hydrocarbon?
A compound that contains ONLY hydrogen and carbon atoms.
What is a Homologous Series?
A family of compounds containing the same functional group but with each successive member of the series differing by a -CH2 group.
What is a functional group?
An atom/group responsible for the characteristic reactions of the compound.
What is the general formula for an alkane?
CNH2N+2
What is the general formula for an alkene?
CNH2N
What is an aromatic compund?
Compounds containing a benzene ring.
What is an aliphatic compound?
Compounds of carbon and hydrogen joined together in straight chains, branched chains or non-aromatic rings.
What is an alicyclic compound?
Compounds arranged in non-aromatic rings with or without side chains.
What are the ‘stem’ names for each number of carbons?
1 meth-
2 eth-
3 prop-
4 but-
5 pent-
6 hex-
7 hept-
8 oct-
9 non-
10 dec-
Empirical Formula
The simplest whole number ratio of the atoms of each element present in a compound.
Molecular Formula
The actual number of atoms of each element present in one molecule.
General Formula
The simplest algebraic formula for any member of a homologous series.
What are structural isomers?
Molecules with the same molecular formula but a different structural formula.
What is homolytic fission?
The breaking of a covalent bond where one electron from the bonding pair goes to each atom to for 2 radicals.
What is heterolytic fission?
The breaking of a covalent bond where one bonding atom receives both electrons from the bonding pair to form 2 ions.
