F322 Unit 2 Module 1 Basic Concepts and hydrocarbons

General formula: the simplest algebraic formula of a member of a homologous series. E.g. CnH2n+2 for an alkane and CnH2n for an alkene Molecular formula: The number of atoms of each element in a molecule Empirical formula: The simplest whole number ratio of atoms of each element present in a compound Structural formula: A formula showing the minimal detail for the arrangement of atoms in a molecule e.g. Propane CH3CH2CH3 Displayed formula: A formula showing the relative positioning of the atoms in a molecule and the bonds between them e.g. Propane HH H H-C-C-C-H H HH Skeletal formula: A simplified organic formula, with hydrogen atoms removed from alkyl chains, leaving just a carbon skeleton and associated functional groups e.g. 2-methylpropane

Homologous series - a family of compounds, that: Contain the same functional group Have similar chemical properties Each successive member differs by one carbon & two hydrogen atoms

Functional group a group of atoms responsible for the characteristic reactions of a compound e.g. prop-1-ol, the OH on the 1st carbon is the functional group HH H H-C-C-C-OH H HH Hydrocarbon a compound made of carbon and hydrogen atoms A saturated hydrocarbon only has single bonds An unsaturated hydrocarbon contains C-C multiple bonds, an alkene is an example of an unsaturated hydrocarbon Hydrocarbons can also be described as: Aliphatic where the carbon atoms are joined together in straight chains, un-branched or branched Alicyclic where the carbon atoms are joined together in a ring structure

F322 Unit 2 Module 1 Basic Concepts and hydrocarbons