Lesson 3: Homo what?

Because of the large number of organic compounds, they can be divided into groups having the same general formula and related structures and properties, which is also called a homologous series.

A homologous series is a family or organic compounds with similar chemical properties.

Characteristics of homologous series

· Members have the same general formula

-Each member of the series differs from the next by a –CH₂– unit.

· Members have similar structures

-They have the same functional group

-Functional group is an atom or a group of atoms that gives the characteristic properties to a molecule.

· Members can be made by similar methods

· Members have similar chemical properties but varying in reactivity.

· Physical properties vary gradually along the series

-Melting and boiling points increase gradually as the no. of carbon atoms in the molecule increases

-Viscosity increases as relative molecular mass and size increases.

7:42 AM