Question

What is the difference in the molecular formula of any two consecutive members of a homologous series of organic compounds?

Answer 1

1. Homologous series is defined as the group of organic compounds containing particular functional groups.
2. The molecular formula of two consecutive members of the homologous series of an organic compound differs by $\mathbf{-}{\mathbf{CH}}_{\mathbf{2}}\mathbf{-}$ unit.
3. The molecular formula of Methane is ${\mathbf{CH}}_{\mathbf{4}}$.
4. The molecular formula of Ethane is ${\mathbf{C}}_{\mathbf{2}}{\mathbf{H}}_{\mathbf{6}}$.
5. The difference in the molecular formula of Methane and Ethane ( consecutive member of homologous series) is $\mathbf{-}{\mathbf{CH}}_{\mathbf{2}}\mathbf{-}$ unit.