What is a functional group?

A functional group is a specific atom or group of atoms within a molecule that is responsible for the characteristic chemical reactions of that compound (e.g. -OH in alcohols, -COOH in carboxylic acids).

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Core Study Guide

Organic Chemistry

The chemistry of carbon compounds and functional groups.

Organic chemistry is the study of carbon-based compounds. Hydrocarbons contain only hydrogen and carbon.

This unit covers saturated hydrocarbons (alkanes), unsaturated hydrocarbons (alkenes, alkynes), functional groups, and esterification reactions.

Key Takeaways

•Alkanes contain single C-C bonds (saturated); alkenes contain double C=C bonds (unsaturated).
•Functional groups determine the chemical properties of organic families.
•Esterification combines alcohols and carboxylic acids to produce sweet-smelling esters.

Core Concepts & Definitions

1Hydrocarbon Families

Classified by bond saturation status.

•Alkanes: CnH2n+2 (single bonds, e.g. methane).

•Alkenes: CnH2n (double bonds, e.g. ethene).

•Alkynes: CnH2n-2 (triple bonds, e.g. ethyne).

Quick Revision Notes

•Alkanes undergo substitution reactions; alkenes undergo addition reactions.
•Saponification is the alkaline hydrolysis of esters (fats) to produce soap.