Organic molecules

Boiling point

The temperature at which the vapour pressure of a substance equals the atmospheric pressure.

Melting point

The temperature at which the solid and liquid phase of a substance are at equilibrium.

Vapour pressure

The pressure exerted by a vapour at equilibrium with it's liquid in a closed system.

Organic molecules

Molecules containing carbon atoms (and hydrogen atoms) which are bonded to each other.

Molecular formula

A chemical formula that indicates the type of atoms and the correct number of each in a molecule, Ex. C4H8O

Structural formula

Shows which atoms are attached to which within the molecule. Atoms are represented by their chemical symbols and lines are used to represent ALL the bonds that hold the atoms together.

Condensed structural formula

Shows the way in which the atoms are bonded together in the molecule, but DOES NOT SHOW ALL the bond lines. Ex. CH3CH2COCH3

Hydrocarbons

Organic compounds that consist of hydrogen and carbon only.

Homologous series

A series of organic compounds that can be described by the same general formula

OR

in which one member differs from the next with a CH2 group.

Saturated compounds

Compounds in which there are no multiple bonds between carbon atoms in their hydrocarbon chains. Ex. Alkanes.

Unsaturated compounds

Compounds with one or more multiple bonds between carbon atoms in their hydrocarbon chains. Ex. Alkenes or Alkynes.

Functional group

A bond of an atom or a group of atoms that determine(s) the physical and chemical properties of a group of organic compounds.

Structural isomers

Organic molecules with the same molecular formula but different structural formula.

Chain isomers

Organic molecules with the same molecular formula, but different chains/chain lengths. Ex. butane → 2-methylpropane

Positional isomers

Organic molecules with the same molecular formula, but different positions of the side chain, substituents or functional groups on the parent chain.

Functional isomers

Organic molecules with the same molecular formula, but different functional groups.