Introduction to Organic Chemistry: Hydrocarbons

These flashcards cover key concepts from the introductory lecture on organic chemistry focusing on hydrocarbons, including definitions, formulas, properties, and the naming conventions of various organic compounds.

What is the definition of organic compounds?

Originally the chemistry of living or once-lived, now the chemistry of carbon-containing compounds.

Who is Friedrich Wohler?

A chemist known for synthesizing organic compounds.

What are the main elements present in organic compounds?

Carbon (C) and Hydrogen (H), sometimes Oxygen (O), Sulfur (S), Nitrogen (N), and halogens (F, Cl, Br, I).

What is the key difference between organic and inorganic compounds?

Organic compounds primarily contain carbon and hydrogen, while inorganic compounds mainly involve metals and non-metals.

What is the general formula for alkanes?

CnH(2n+2), where 'n' is the number of carbon atoms.

What are the first three alkanes and their formulas?

Methane (CH4), Ethane (C2H6), Propane (C3H8).

How are alkenes named?

By using the corresponding alkane name and changing the ending to –ene.

What is a saturated hydrocarbon?

A hydrocarbon with the maximum number of hydrogen atoms, with single C-C bonds.

What is the structure of cyclopropane?

A three-membered carbon ring (C3H6).

How are alkynes named?

By using the corresponding alkane name and changing the ending to –yne.

What are cis-trans isomers?

Isomers where two substituents are on the same side (cis) or opposite sides (trans) of a double bond.

What happens during hydrogenation?

Hydrogen atoms add to the carbon atoms of a double or triple bond, often using a catalyst.

What is the main property of alkanes with 1-4 carbon atoms?

They are gases at room temperature.

What compounds are produced by the addition of H2 to vegetable oils?

Compounds with higher melting points, such as margarine.

What is the major product of alkene hydration?

An alcohol is produced from an alkene by adding water (H2O) in the presence of an acid catalyst.

What are two types of unsaturated hydrocarbons?

Alkenes and alkynes.

What is an aromatic compound?

A compound containing a benzene ring as part of its structure.

What is the significance of IUPAC in naming alkanes?

IUPAC provides a systematic approach to naming organic compounds based on their structure.

How is the boiling point of organic compounds generally compared to inorganic compounds?

Organic compounds generally have lower boiling points than inorganic compounds.

What is the condensed structural formula of butane?

C4H10.