Alcohols, Phenols, and Ethers

This set of flashcards covers the key concepts related to the structure, properties, naming, and reactions of alcohols, phenols, and ethers.

Alcohol

A hydroxyl group (-OH) bound to an alkyl chain.

Phenol

A hydroxyl group (-OH) bound to an aryl group.

Ethers

Compounds containing two alkyl or aryl groups bound to an oxygen (R-O-R).

Thiols

Compounds similar to alcohols but containing a sulfur atom instead of oxygen (R-S-H).

Hydrogen bonding

A strong type of dipole-dipole attraction that occurs between hydrogen and an electronegative atom.

Solubility in water

The ability of a substance to dissolve in water; alcohols exhibit varying solubility based on carbon chain length.

Boiling Point

The temperature at which a liquid's vapor pressure equals the atmospheric pressure; alcohols typically have higher boiling points compared to hydrocarbons.

Primary, Secondary, Tertiary Alcohols

Classification based on the number of carbon atoms bonded to the carbon with the hydroxyl group; primary has one, secondary has two, and tertiary has three.

Dehydration of Alcohols

A reaction that removes water to produce an alkene from an alcohol.

Oxidation of Alcohols

The conversion of an alcohol (R-OH) to a carbonyl compound (R=O) usually involving the loss of hydrogen.

Methanol

Also known as methyl alcohol, it is a common solvent and can be toxic if ingested.

Ethanol

Also known as ethyl alcohol, it's a common solvent and is the type of alcohol found in alcoholic beverages.

Isopropyl Alcohol

Commonly known as rubbing alcohol, it's used as a disinfectant and solvent.

Thiols

Organic compounds containing the sulfhydryl group (-SH) that are known for their strong odors.

Phenolic Compounds

Compounds derived from phenol that often serve as flavorings or antiseptics.

Common names of Alcohols

Simplified naming where the carbon chain is named with a -yl ending followed by 'alcohol'.

Use of Ethers

Ethers are used in some anesthetics and are known for forming peroxides when left standing.

Hydration of Alkenes

The addition of water to an alkene, forming an alcohol.

Synthesis of Alcohols

Methods to produce alcohols, including hydration reactions and halide exchange.

Liver Metabolism of Ethanol

The process by which ethanol is oxidized in the liver, often producing acetaldehyde.