Hydrocarbons, Alcohols and Carboxylic Acids – Review Flashcards

Fourteen question-and-answer flashcards covering definitions, formulas, functional groups, industrial applications, oxidation of alcohols, and key conceptual statements from the lecture notes.

What is an alkane?

A saturated hydrocarbon composed only of carbon and hydrogen atoms joined by carbon–carbon single covalent bonds.

Where are alkanes commonly found before they are refined?

In unprocessed crude oil.

In organic chemistry, what does the term "saturated" signify?

That the molecule contains only carbon–carbon single covalent bonds (no double or triple bonds).

What is the general molecular formula for alkanes?

CnH2n+2

What is the general molecular formula for alkenes?

CnH2n

How do alkenes differ structurally from alkanes?

Alkenes contain at least one carbon–carbon double bond and therefore have fewer hydrogen atoms than the corresponding alkane.

Which functional group characterises alcohols?

The hydroxyl group, –OH.

What is meant by a "functional group" in an organic molecule?

The reactive part of an organic molecule, often containing oxygen or nitrogen, that determines its chemical behaviour.

Name one key industrial use of alcohols.

They serve as important solvents and intermediates in synthesis reactions across many industries.

Which oxidising agent is commonly used to convert a primary alcohol to a carboxylic acid?

Potassium manganate(VII) (KMnO4).

What defines a primary alcohol?

Its –OH group is attached to a carbon atom that is bonded to only one other carbon atom.

State the lecture’s Statement of Enquiry.

Our ability to collect evidence improves with advances in science and technical innovations.

In the model-building colour scheme, which colour represents oxygen atoms?

Red.

Which critical-thinking skills were emphasised under ATL skills?

Inductive and deductive reasoning.