Organic chemistry is the scientific study of the structure, properties, and reactions of organic compounds and organic materials, i.e., matter in its various forms that contain carbon atoms.
1. Unique Nature of Carbon
- Catenation: The unique property of carbon atoms to form long chains or rings by bonding with other carbon atoms.
- Tetravalency: Carbon has a valency of four, allowing it to form single, double, or triple covalent bonds with other atoms.
2. Classification of Hydrocarbons
Hydrocarbons are compounds composed exclusively of carbon and hydrogen.
- Alkanes (Saturated): Contain only single bonds. General formula: $C_nH_{2n+2}$. Example: Methane ($CH_4$).
- Alkenes (Unsaturated): Contain at least one carbon-carbon double bond. General formula: $C_nH_{2n}$. Example: Ethene ($C_2H_4$).
- Alkynes (Unsaturated): Contain at least one carbon-carbon triple bond. General formula: $C_nH_{2n-2}$. Example: Ethyne ($C_2H_2$).
3. Common Functional Groups
Functional groups dictate the chemical behavior of organic molecules.
• Hydroxyl Group (-OH): Forms Alcohols (e.g., Ethanol $C_2H_5OH$).
• Carboxyl Group (-COOH): Forms Carboxylic Acids (e.g., Acetic Acid $CH_3COOH$).
• Amino Group (-NH2): Forms Amines.
• Hydroxyl Group (-OH): Forms Alcohols (e.g., Ethanol $C_2H_5OH$).
• Carboxyl Group (-COOH): Forms Carboxylic Acids (e.g., Acetic Acid $CH_3COOH$).
• Amino Group (-NH2): Forms Amines.