Intro Organic Chemistry

Empirical formula

The simplest ratio of atoms of each element in a compound.

Molecular formula

The formula showing the actual ratio of atoms of each element in a compound.

Structural formula

Gives the number and type of atoms in a molecule and shows how they are bonded together

Skeletal Formula

A straight one represents carbon

Homologous Series

• They show a gradual change in physical properties.

• They have similar chemical properties.

Alkene - General Formula

Halogenoalkane General Formula

Alcohol General Formula

Aldehyde General Formula

Ketone General Formula

Carboxylic Acid General Formula

Ester General Formula

Amine General Formula

Nitrile General Formula

Structural Formula - Alkene

Structural Formula - Halogenoalkane

Structural Formula - Alcohol

Structural Formula - Aldehyde

Structural Formula - Ketone

Structural Formula - Carboxylic acid

Structural Formula - Ester

Structural Formula - Amine

Structural Formula - Nitrile

Nomenclature - What does the stem of the name come from?

The longest carbon chain

Nomenclature - How are the side chains and functional groups’ position decided?

Numbering the carbon atoms from the side that gives the lowest possible numbers in the name

How are side chains shown in structural formulas?

Through brackets: ()

How do you indicate more than one of the same alkyl side-chain or functional groups in a compound?

In front of its name is added: di- (for two), tri- (for three) or tetra-(for four)

How are multiple alkyl side-chains ordered?

In alphabetical order

How are adjacent numbers separated?

By a comma: ,

How are numbers and words separated?

By a hyphen: -