Organic Definitions

General formula

simplest algebraic formula for any member of a homologous series

Structural formula

smallest amount of detail necessary to show the arrangement of atoms in the molecule

Displayed formula

shows the relative position of all the atoms in the molecule and bonds in between them

Skeletal formula

simplified organic formula leaving just a carbon skeleton and any functional groups

Structural isomer

compounds with the same molecular formula but different structural formula

Homologous series

A family of compounds with similar chemical properties whose successive members differ by the addition of a -CH₂ group

Functional group

The part of the compound responsible for the chemical properties and characteristic reactions of the compound

Aliphatic

carbon and hydrogen joined in unbranched or branched chains, or non-aromatic rings

Alicyclic

aliphatic compound arranged in non-aromatic rings with or without side chains

Aromatic

some or all of the carbon atoms are found in a benzene ring

Saturated

only single C-C bonds

Saturated

one or more C=C bond

Homolytic fission

Each bonding atom receives one atom from the bonded pair to form two radicals

Heterolytic fission

one of the atoms takes both electrons from the bond and becomes a negative ion

Radical

a species with an unpaired electron

Curly arrow

shows the movement of an electron pair when bonds are being broken (heterolytic fission) or made

Nucleophile

an electron pair donor

Electrophile

an electron pair acceptor

Markownikoff’s rule

when a hydrogen halide reacts with an unsymmetrical alkene, the hydrogen attaches to the least substituted carbon atom