Topic B3 - Definitions Flashcards
Alicyclic
containing carbon atoms joined together in a ring, that is not aromatic
Aliphatic
containing carbon atoms joined together in straight or branched chains
Aromatic
containing one or more benzene rings
Chain Reaction
reaction in which the propagation steps release new radicals that continue the reaction
Cis-Trans Isomerism
type of E/Z isomerism - 2 non-hydrogen groups and 2 hydrogen atoms around the double C=C bond
-cis isomer has H atoms on each carbon on same side
-trans isomer has H atoms on each carbon on different sides
E/Z Isomerism
type of stereoisomerism in which different groups attached to each carbon of a C=C double bond may be arranged differently in space (due to restricted rotation of C=C bond)
Electrophile
an atom which is an electron pair acceptor, to form a new covalent bond
Empirical Formula
simplest whole-number ratio of atoms of each element present in a compound
Functional Group
the part of the organic molecule responsible for its chemical reactions
General Formula
simplest algebraic formula of a member of a homologous series (e.g. alkanes CnH2n+2)
Heterolytic Fission
breaking of a covalent bond forming a cation and an anion
Homologous Series
series of organic compounds with the same functional group but with each successive member differing by CH2
Molecular Formula
formula that shows the number and type of atoms of each element present in a molecule
Nucleophile
electron pair donor, to form a new covalent bond
Radical
species with an unpaired electron
Reflux
continual boiling and condensing of a reaction mixture back to the original container, ensuring reaction takes place without the contents of the flask boiling dry
Stereoisomers
compounds with the same structural formula but with a different arrangement of atoms in space
Structural Formula
formula showing the minimal detail for the arrangement of atoms in a molecule
Structural Isomers
molecules with the same molecular formula but with different structural formulae
