Intro to organic chem

• What is a hydrocarbon?

  a compound of hydrogen and carbon
• molecular formulae definition

  the number of each type of element in one molecule of a substance
• empirical formula definition

  the simplest whole number ratio of the elements in a compound
• displayed formula meaning

  a formula which shows all the bonds drawn as lines in one molecule of a substance
• structural formula definition

  a formula which shows the minimum detail for an unambiguous formula
• general formula definition

  a formula that states the ratio of atoms of each element in the formula of every compound in a particular homologous series
• homologous series definition

  series of organic compounds that have the same general formula and similar chemical reactions. each member differs from the next by a -CH2- group.
• functional group meaning

  organic molecules that contain only C-H and C-C bonds are called alkanes. any other feature of an organic molecule such as C=C bond is described as a functional group
• Isomerism meaning

  Compounds that have the same molecular formula but different displayed formula are said to exhibit isomerism, known as isomers
• Substitution reaction

  A reaction in which one part of an organic molecule is substituted for something else. Two products are formed.
• Addition reaction

  A reaction in which a molecule is added to an organic molecule. Only one product is formed.
• Combustion reaction

  A reaction in which something burns in oxygen.