Organic Chemistry: Alkenes, Alkynes, and Aromatic Compounds

These flashcards cover key terms and definitions related to alkenes, alkynes, and aromatic compounds in organic chemistry.

Geometric Isomers

Isomers that have the same molecular formula but differ in the spatial arrangement of atoms.

Alkenes

Hydrocarbons that contain at least one carbon-carbon double bond.

Alkynes

Hydrocarbons that contain at least one carbon-carbon triple bond.

Markovnikov's Rule

In the addition of unsymmetrical reagents to alkenes, the positive portion adds to the carbon atom that already has more hydrogen atoms.

Hydrocarbon

Organic compounds consisting entirely of hydrogen and carbon.

Functional Group

A specific group of atoms within a molecule that is responsible for the characteristic reactions of that molecule.

Benzene

A simple aromatic compound with a six-carbon ring and alternating double bonds.

Cracking

The process of breaking down larger hydrocarbons into smaller ones by the application of heat and pressure.

Hydrogenation

The process of adding hydrogen to an alkene or alkyne to convert it to an alkane.

Cyclic Hydrocarbons

Hydrocarbons whose carbon atoms are joined in rings.

Aromatic Hydrocarbons

Hydrocarbons that contain a benzene ring or similar structure.

Resonance

The phenomenon where a molecule can be represented by two or more valid Lewis structures.

Substitution Reaction

A reaction where one atom or a group of atoms in a molecule is replaced by another atom or group.

Carboxylic Acid

An organic acid characterized by the presence of a carboxyl functional group (-COOH).

Alcohol

Organic compounds containing a hydroxyl functional group (-OH).