Introduction to Organic Chemistry - Hydrocarbons and Functional Groups

Organic chemistry is the study of carbon-based compounds. Carbon is unique because it can form four covalent bonds, allowing for the formation of long chains and rings (catenation).

Hydrocarbons are compounds consisting entirely of hydrogen and carbon atoms. They are classified into saturated ($C-C$ single bonds) and unsaturated (containing $C=C$ double or $C \equiv C$ triple bonds).

A Homologous Series is a family of organic compounds with the same general formula, similar chemical properties, and a graduation in physical properties (like boiling point) as the chain length increases.

Alkanes are saturated hydrocarbons with the general formula $C_nH_{2n+2}$. They are relatively unreactive except for combustion and substitution reactions with halogens under $UV$ light.

Alkenes are unsaturated hydrocarbons containing at least one $C=C$ double bond, with the general formula $C_nH_{2n}$. They are more reactive than alkanes and undergo addition reactions.

Functional Groups are specific atoms or groups of atoms within molecules that determine the chemical reactivity of the molecule. Examples include the hydroxyl group ($-OH$) in alcohols and the carboxyl group ($-COOH$) in carboxylic acids.

Isomers are molecules that have the same molecular formula but different structural arrangements (e.g., $but-1-ene$ and $but-2-ene$).