Homologous series

• The general formula for alkanes is CnH2n+2
• Alcohols have the general formula CnH2nOH
• A homolgous series has similar properties due to their similar structure.
• All organic chemicals are covalent molecules based on the chemical carbon.
• Carbon atoms can form 4 covalent bonds.
• Hydrogen atoms form one covalent bond
• Organic compounds contain hydrocarbons, which are made up of only carbon and hydrogen atoms.
• Oxygen atoms form two covalent bonds
• Each molecule contains a hydrocarbon chain and an alcohol group (oxygen bonded to hydroge)
• The functional group is the part of a molecule which determines how it reacts
• A homologous series of organic molecules have the same functional group but each successive member has an additional - CH2
• Naming organic compound:

  1. identify the longest chain of carbon atoms
  2. Look at number of carbons in side chain
  3. State position of group on the main carbon chain
• How many carbon atoms does Meth- have?

  one
• How many carbons does Eth- have?

  Two
• How many carbons does prop- have?

  three
• How many carbons does But- have?

  four
• How many carbons does pent- have?

  Five
• How many carbons does hex- have?

  six
• How many carbons does Hept- have?

  seven
• How many carbons does Oct- have?

  Eight
• How many carbons does Non- have?

  Nine
• How many carbons does Dec- have?

  Ten