Definitions Flashcards
Addition
A reaction in which two or more molecules combine to produce a larger molecule and nothing else.
Aromatic Compounds
Carbon compounds which contain the characteristic benzene ring of 6 carbon atoms. The ring is planar and has delocalised electrons.
Condensation
A reaction in which two (or more) molecules join to produce a single larger molecule with water or another small molecule formed at the same time.
Dehydration
The removal of water from a single compound, e.g. dehydration of ethanol C2H5OH produces ethene, C2H4
Dehydrogenation
The removal of hydrogen from a single compound, e.g. dehydration of propane C3H8 produces propene C3H6
Hydration
The addition of H20 to an unsaturated compound, e.g. the hydration of ethene C2H4 produces ethanol, C2H5OH
Hydrogenation
The addition of hydrogen to an unsaturated compound, e.g. hydrogenation converts alkenes to alkanes and oils into fats.
Phenyl group
A group of carbon and hydrogen atoms, formula C6H5, found in many aromatic compounds
Reducing Agent
A substance which loses electrons
Thermoplastic
Refers to polymers which can be softened by heating and then remoulded. They harden again on cooling.
Thermosetting
Refers to polymers which form as a rigid cross-linked structure when their monomers react on heating. They cannot be softened by further heating.
Polymers
Large molecules made by joining many smaller molecules (monomers) together thousands of times
Polyamide formation
In this, a di-amine condenses with a di-acid
Biodegradeable polymers
A group of natural condensation polymers which can be broken down by micro-organisms in the environment
Emulsifying reangets
Chemicals which can make oil and water become permanently mixed to produce a stable emulsion
