A level Chemistry · Edexcel 9CH0 · Topic 6A
Introduction to organic chemistry
Key points
- A homologous series has the same general formula and functional group, with each member differing by CH₂; physical properties change gradually.
- Formulae: molecular, empirical, structural, displayed and skeletal.
- Structural isomers have the same molecular formula but different structures (chain, position or functional group isomers).
- Stereoisomers have the same structural formula but a different spatial arrangement. E/Z isomerism needs restricted rotation about C=C and two different groups on each carbon; cis/trans applies when one group on each carbon is the same.
- Use Cahn–Ingold–Prelog priority rules (higher atomic number = higher priority) to assign E (opposite) or Z (same side).
- Reaction types: addition, substitution, elimination, oxidation, polymerisation. Reagents are nucleophiles, electrophiles or radicals.
- Hazard and risk: identify hazards and state how to reduce risks in practical work.
Topic notesPremium
Before you can study organic reactions you need a shared language: how compounds are named and drawn, how they are grouped into families, and how the same atoms can be arranged in different ways. This sub-topic sets out those tools.
Unlock the full notes with Premium
Premium includes full topic notes, the paper generator, self-quizzes and progress tracking.
Practise this topicPremium
Premium members can generate an exam-style paper with a mark scheme, or take a quick quiz, on Introduction to organic chemistry.