What is meant by homologous series of organic compounds? Write the chemical formulae of two members of a homologous series and state which part determines the (i) physical properties, (ii) chemical properties, of these compunds.
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Solution
A series of organic compounds with the same general formula but differ from adjacent members by "−CH2−" group are referred to as homologous series of compounds.
Members of the homologous series of functional group aldehyde are:
1. Ethanal : CH3CHO
2. Propanal : CH3CH2CHO
Physical properties: Determined by the hydrocarbon chain −CH3 and −C2H5.
Chemical properties: Determine by the functional group −CHO.