key definitions for organic chemistry

Question 1

what is the general formula

Answer 1

• the simplest algebraic formula of a member of the homologous series

Question 2

what is the structural formula

Answer 2

• the minimal detail that shows the arrangement of atoms in a molecule

Question 3

what is the displayed formula

Answer 3

• shows the relative position of the atoms and the bonds between them

Question 4

what is the skeletal formula

Answer 4

• simplified organic formula, shown by removing hydrogen atoms from alkyl chains, leaving just the carbon skeleton and associated functional groups

Question 5

what is the homologous series

Answer 5

• a series of organic compounds having the same functional group but with each successive member differing by ch2

Question 6

what is a functional group

Answer 6

• a group of atoms responsible for the characteristics reactions of the compound

Question 7

what is an aliphatic

Answer 7

• a compound containing carbon and hydrogen joined together in straight chains, branched chains or non-aromatic rings

Question 8

what is an alicyclic

Answer 8

• an aliphatic compound arranged in non-aromatic rings with or without side chains

Question 9

what is an aromatic

Answer 9

• a compound containing a benzene ring

Question 10

what is saturated

Answer 10

• a molecule with single carbon bonds only

Question 11

what is unsaturated

Answer 11

• a molecule with multiple carbon-carbon bonds, including aromatic rings

Question 12

what is a structural isomer

Answer 12

• compounds with the same molecular formula but with a different structural formula

Question 13

what is homolytic fission

Answer 13

• when a bond breaks and each bonding atom receives one electron from the bonded pair to form two radicals

Question 14

what is heterolytic fission

Answer 14

• when a bond breaks and one bonding atom receives both electrons from the bonded pair to form ions

Question 15

what is radical

Answer 15

• a species with an unpaired electron