Introduction to organic chemistry key terms

Alkane

A saturated hydrocarbon with the general formula CnH2n+2, containing only single bonds.

Functional group

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

IUPAC

International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry, responsible for naming chemical compounds.

Displayed formula

A formula that shows the arrangement of atoms and the bonds between them in a molecule.

Hydroxyl group

A functional group consisting of an oxygen atom bonded to a hydrogen atom (-OH), characteristic of alcohols.

Carboxyl group

A functional group consisting of a carbon atom double-bonded to an oxygen atom and single-bonded to a hydroxyl group (-COOH), characteristic of carboxylic acids.

Homologous Series

A series of organic compounds with the same functional group and a gradual change in physical properties, differing by a CH2 unit.

Functional Group

A specific group of atoms in a molecule that determines the chemical properties and reactions of that compound.

Isomerism

Isomerism is the phenomenon where compounds with the same molecular formula exist in different structural forms.

Structural Isomers

Structural isomers are compounds that differ in the connectivity of their atoms, leading to different structural formulas.

Isomerism

The existence of compounds with the same molecular formula but different structural or spatial arrangements.

Curly arrows

Symbols used in reaction mechanisms to show the movement of electron pairs.

Nucleophile

A species that donates an electron pair to form a bond.

Electrophile

A species that accepts an electron pair to form a bond.

Substitution Reaction

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

Elimination Reaction

A reaction in which a molecule loses a small molecule, resulting in the formation of a double bond.