Organic Compounds

Question 1

What are Hydrocarbons?

Answer 1

Simple organic compounds that only contain hydrogen and carbon atoms.

Question 2

Different types of formula

Answer 2

Empirical Formula - Simplified ratio of elements in a compound.

Molecular Formula - The exact number of atoms of each element in a compound.

General Formula - All members of a homologous organic series follow the general formula. e.g. Alkanes = CnH2n+2.

Structural Formula - The structural arrangement of atoms within a molecule. CH3-CH3

Displayed Formula - Shows every atom and every bond in an organic bond. H - C - C - H

Question 3

Carbon Chain Names

Answer 3

meth - 1
eth - 2
prop - 3
but - 4
pent - 5
hex - 6

methyl - CH3
ethyl - CH3CH2

Question 4

Rules for Naming Organic Compounds

Answer 4

1. Find the longest continuous carbon bond.
2. Look for side groups/atoms.
3. Count the carbon chain from both sides giving the side groups the lowest number.
4. Put the name together.
   Comma between numbers.
   Hypen between numbers and letters.
5. If 2 side groups are the same, put ‘di’ before it.
   If 3 side groups are the same, put ‘tri’ before it.

Question 5

Isomers

Answer 5

Same molecules structured differently so named differently. e.g. Butane and 2-methylpropane.

Question 6

Alcohols

Answer 6

A homologous series of compounds which contain -OH attached to the hydrocarbon. (ends in -ol)