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Introduction to organic chemistry
This topic provides the language and reaction-mechanism foundations for organic chemistry.
8
Objectives
10
Flashcards
10
Questions
90 min
Study time
AqaA LevelChemistryOrganic chemistry
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Syllabus checklist
What you need to know
8 objective pages available
Nomenclature and formulae4 objectives
- Use IUPAC rules to name organic compounds in the specification.
- Represent organic compounds using molecular, empirical, structural, displayed and skeletal formulae.
- Identify functional groups in organic molecules.
- Distinguish homologous series from functional groups.
Isomerism and reaction mechanisms4 objectives
- Identify structural isomers.
- Use curly arrows to represent electron movement in mechanisms.
- Define nucleophile, electrophile and free radical.
- Distinguish addition, substitution, elimination and polymerisation reactions.
Key terms
AlkaneFunctional groupIUPACDisplayed formulaHydroxyl groupCarboxyl groupHomologous SeriesFunctional GroupIsomerismStructural IsomersCurly arrowsNucleophile
Exam tips
- Double-check your IUPAC names: Before finalizing your answer, verify that you have correctly identified the longest carbon chain and the functional groups.
- Practice drawing structures: Regularly practice drawing molecular, structural, and displayed formulas to reinforce your understanding.
Common mistakes
- Incorrect naming of branched alkanes: Always start numbering from the end closest to the functional group to ensure the lowest possible numbers.
- Incorrect naming of organic compounds: Always refer to the longest carbon chain and use the correct IUPAC naming conventions.
Practice preview
- Which of the following is the correct IUPAC name for the compound with the formula C5H12?
- Provide the IUPAC name for the following structure: CH3-CH2-CH(CH3)-CH2-COOH.
- A compound has the molecular formula C6H12. Identify the possible structural isomers and provide their IUPAC names.
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