Introduction to Organic Molecules, Functional Groups, and Forensic Chemistry

Vocabulary flashcards covering hydrocarbons (alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, aromatics), functional groups (ethers, sulfides, alcohols, phenols), stereochemistry, and applications of chemistry in criminology.

Hydrocarbons

Organic compounds composed exclusively of carbon ($\text{C}$) and hydrogen ($\text{H}$).

Alkanes

Saturated hydrocarbons containing only single carbon-carbon bonds, represented by the general formula $C_n H_{2n+2}$.

Saturated (Hydrocarbons)

A condition indicating that carbon atoms contain the maximum possible number of hydrogen atoms bonded via single bonds.

Alkenes

Unsaturated hydrocarbons (sometimes called olefins) containing at least one carbon-carbon double bond ($\text{C}=\text{C}$), with the general formula $C_n H_{2n}$ for those with one double bond.

Ethene

The simplest alkene ($C_2H_4$), existing as a gas that serves as a cellular signal in fruits to stimulate ripening.

Alkynes

Unsaturated hydrocarbons containing at least one carbon-carbon triple bond ($\text{C}\equiv\text{C}$), characterized by the general formula $C_n H_{2n-2}$.

Ethyne (Acetylene)

The simplest alkyne ($C_2H_2$), commonly called acetylene, which is utilized as a fuel in welding blow torches.

Unsaturated Hydrocarbons

Hydrocarbons containing carbon-carbon double or triple bonds (such as alkenes and alkynes) that possess fewer bonded hydrogen atoms than corresponding alkanes.

Aromatic Organic Molecules

Planar (flat) ring structures that are widespread in nature, exemplified by compounds such as benzene and naphthalene.

Benzene

A planar aromatic hydrocarbon ($C_6H_6$) that was formerly a commonly used organic laboratory solvent until it was shown to be carcinogenic.

Naphthalene

An aromatic compound characterized by a distinctive "mothball" odor.

Organic Molecule

A compound containing carbon as its backbone bonded to elements such as hydrogen, oxygen, sulfur, phosphorus, and halogens, playing a crucial role in living organisms.

Functional Groups

Small groups of atoms that exhibit characteristic reactivity and display distinctive chemical behavior when present in a compound.

Ethers

A functional group characterized by a central oxygen atom bonded to two carbon atoms.

Diethyl Ether

An ether compound used as an industrial and laboratory solvent, an engine starting fluid, and historically as a general anesthetic.

Sulfides

Functional groups related to ethers in which the central oxygen atom is replaced by a sulfur atom.

Dimethyl Sulfide

A sulfide compound ($\text{H}_3\text{C-S-CH}_3$) utilized in the flavor industry to enhance dairy and corn-related flavors.

Hydroxyl Group

An $-\text{OH}$ group that, when single-bonded to a carbon atom, forms the defining feature of alcohols.

Primary Alcohol

An alcohol where the carbon atom bonded to the $-\text{OH}$ group is bonded to only one other carbon atom.

Secondary Alcohol

An alcohol where the carbon atom bonded to the $-\text{OH}$ group is bonded to two other carbon atoms.

Tertiary Alcohol

An alcohol where the carbon atom bonded to the $-\text{OH}$ group is bonded to three other carbon atoms.

Phenol

A compound resulting from a hydroxyl group ($-\text{OH}$) attached directly to an aromatic ring.

Stereochemistry

The branch of chemistry that studies the 2D or 3D spatial arrangement of atoms in molecules and how this arrangement influences physical and chemical properties.

Isomers

Molecules that possess identical molecular formulas but differ in the spatial orientation of their atoms (e.g., n-butane and iso-butane).

Gunshot Residue (GSR)

Microscopic particles and chemical residues deposited on nearby surfaces, clothing, or a shooter's hands upon firearm discharge.

Arson and Fire Investigation (Chemistry Role)

The application of chemical principles to understand combustion and analyze fire debris for residues of ignitable liquids.

Forensic Drug Analysis

The identification of suspected controlled substances (such as methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin) using chemical and instrumental analysis.