Key Concepts in Organic Chemistry

These flashcards cover key concepts related to molecular structures, homologous series, functional groups, and the characteristics of organic compounds.

Displayed Formula

A representation showing all the atoms of each element and all the bonds in a molecule.

Homologous Series

A family or group of similar compounds with similar chemical properties due to the presence of the same functional group.

Alkane General Formula

CnH2n+2.

Alkene General Formula

CnH2n

Alcohol General Formula

CnH2n+1OH.

Carboxylic Acid General Formula

CnH2n+1COOH.

Saturated Compound

A compound where all carbon-carbon bonds are single bonds.

Unsaturated Compound

A compound that contains one or more carbon-carbon double or triple bonds.

Structural Formula

A formula that shows the arrangement of atoms in a molecule without showing all the bonds.

Structural Isomers

Compounds with the same molecular formula, but different structural formulas.

Functional Group of Alcohols

The hydroxyl group (-OH) that determines the chemical properties of alcohols.

General Characteristics of a Homologous Series

Includes having the same functional group, the same general formula, differing by a -CH2- unit, displaying trends in physical properties, and sharing similar chemical properties.