chemistry

HOMOLOGOUS SERIES

 The series of organic compounds having a common difference of – CH₂between any two successive members is called homologous series.

The classification and study of the members of the homologous series is called homology and the

members of the series are called homologues.

Characteristic features of homologous series 

i)          There is a common difference of – CH₂between two successive members. There is a common difference of 14 in molecular weight between two successive members.

ii)           They possess similar chemical properties.

iii)         There is regular gradation in their physical properties

iv)         They can be prepared by similar methods.

They can be represented by a general molecular formula

Ex. Alkanes	–	CnH2n + 2
Alkenes	–	CnH2n
Alkynes	–	Cn H2n – 2
Alkyl halides	–	CnH2n+1 “X”
Alcohols and ethers	–	CnH2n+2O
Aldehydes and ketones		–	CnH2nO

Carboxylic acids and esters – C_nH_2nO₂