Organic Chemistry Definitions

Question 1

Organic molecules

Answer 1

Molecules containing carbon atoms with the exception of carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, diamonds, graphite, carbonates (or bicarbonates), carbides and cyanides.

Question 2

Hydrocarbons

Answer 2

Compounds that contain carbon and hydrogen atoms only

Question 3

Functional group

Answer 3

An atom or group of atoms that form the centre of chemical activity in the molecule

Question 4

Homologous Series

Answer 4

A series of similar compounds which have the same functional group and have the same general formula where each member differs from the previous one by a single CH2 unit

Question 5

Alkanes

Answer 5

Contain only single bonds and have the general formula CnH2n+2

Question 6

Alkenes

Answer 6

Contain only double bonds and have the general formula CnH2n

Question 7

Alkynes

Answer 7

Contain at least one triple bond and has the general formula CnH2n-2

Question 8

Catenation

Answer 8

The ability of carbon to bond with itsef.

Question 9

Saturated compound

Answer 9

A compound in which all of the bond between the carbon atoms are single bonds

Question 10

Unsaturated compounds

Answer 10

A coumpound in which there is at least one double and/or triple bond between carbon atoms.

Question 11

Combustion reaction

Answer 11

A chemical reactions where a substance burns in oxygen and releases energy and a gas

Question 12

Structural isomers

Answer 12

Compounds with the same molecular formula but differing structural formulas