Chapter 21, Problem 48A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The characteristics of homologous series of hydrocarbons should be described.

Concept introduction:

The hydrocarbon compounds contain compound that are made up of only hydrogen and carbon atoms. Hydrocarbon compounds that contains single bonds are said to be saturated and compounds that contains multiple bond(s) are said to be unsaturated hydrocarbon.

Explanation of Solution

A series of compounds having same general formula with same functional group that differ from one other by a repeating unit is said to be homologous series. For homologous series of hydrocarbons, the difference between two successive hydrocarbons is ${\text{-CH}}_{\text{2}}\text{-}$.

The characteristics of homologous series of hydrocarbons are:

• All the members of the series are represented by a general formula.
• The difference between successive members is ${\text{-CH}}_{\text{2}}\text{-}$ .
• With increase in number of carbon atoms in the series, the physical properties increase gradually.
• The preparation method is same for all the members.
• The chemical properties are same as the functional group is same.