M4 definitions

Compound containing hydrogen and carbon only.

A series of organic compounds having the same functional group but with each successive member differing by CH2

Compounds with the same molecular formula but different structural formulae.

Compounds with the same structural formula but with different arrangements of atoms in space.

An example of stereoisomerism in which there is restricted rotation about a C=C double bond, and each carbon atom of the C=C double bond has two different groups attached to it. Z isomer higher priority groups on the same side of the double bond; E isomer higher priority groups on opposite sides of the double bond

A special case of E/Z isomerism in which two of the substituent groups attached to each carbon atom of the C=C group are the same (these are often, but not always, a H atom).

Species with an unpaired electron (e.g. Cl.)

The movement of an electron pair, showing either heterolytic fission or formation of a covalent bond.

An electron pair acceptor.

An electron pair donor.

A reaction where an atom or group in a molecule is replaced by another atom or group.

A reaction where a group is added across a double bond of an unsaturated molecule to make a saturated molecule (one product).

A reaction where an atom or group is removed from a molecule to make an unsaturated molecule.

A reaction where oxygen is added and/ or hydrogen is removed from a molecule.

A reaction where an H2O molecule is lost when two molecules join together.

A reaction where a H2O molecule is removed from a saturated molecule to form an unsaturated molecule.

A chemical reaction involving water or an aqueous solution, which causes the breaking of a bond, splitting a reactant molecule into two products.

Single end-on (axial) overlap of orbitals directly between bonding atoms, allowing free rotation of the bond.

Double sideways overlap of adjacent p orbitals above and below the plane of the bonding atoms, with restricted rotation of the bond.

The simplest algebraic formula for any member of a homologous series, e.g. for an alkane CnH2n+2

The minimum detail required to show the arrangement of atoms in a molecule, e.g. for butane CH3CH2CH2CH3

shows the relative positioning of atoms and the bonds

The simplified organic formula, shown by ‘hiding’ every C atom and any H atom which is directly attached to a C atom, leaving just the carbon skeleton and any functional groups.

A group of atoms within a molecule responsible for the characteristic reactions of a compound.