GSCI 163
Lecture 13
Derivatives of hydrocarbons
Carbon can bond to one another and hydrogen,
but they can also bond to other atoms and
molecules. When they bond to other atoms
and molecules besides hydrogen, they form
derivatives molecules.
How do we classify the enormous number of
compounds derived from hydrocarbons?
Functional group
The hydrocarbon structure function as a framework for the
attachment of other atoms. These atoms are called
heteroatoms (hetero = different). The heteroatoms give
character to an organic molecule. Combined they form a
functional group that behave as a unit.
Example:
ethane
ethanol
ethylamine
Alcohols
Hydroxyl group
Alcohols are soluble in water (why?)
Structure
Scientific
name
Common
name
Melting point
(C)
Boiling
point(C)
Methanol
Methyl
alcohol
-97
65
Ethanol
Ethyl alcohol
-115
78
2-Propanol
Isopropyl
alcohol
-126
97
Phenols
Phenolic group
It is acidic because it readily loses an H+ in
solution.
What happens with the electron left?
Circles around the benzene ring
First antiseptic for its anti-bacterial properties
(Joseph Lister, 1867)
Ethers
Ether group
Related to alcohols, but with the oxygen bonded to two
carbons.
In contrast with alcohols they are not very soluble in
water. Why? The absence of the hydroxyl group.
Most famous compound: diethyl ether
The first anesthetic.
Characteristics: volatile, low solubility in water
Amine and
alkaline
Amine group
Less soluble in water, lower boiling point as
compared to alcohols.
Alkaline because they readily accepts hydrogen ion
Notable properties (low formula mass): offensive
odor
Putrescine
Cadaverine
Carbonyl group
Carbon atom
A example of a ketone is Acetone,
the fingernail polish remover.
double bonded to
oxygen
Many have a particular fragrance;
flowers for example owe their
pleasant odor to the presence of
simple aldehydes. One example
is vanillin that give the pleasant
vanilla taste.
Amide and carboxyl group
DEET - repellent
Acetic acid - vinegar
Esters and
their flavors
and odors:
Building blocks of life
Amino acids is an organic compound that contains both an amino
group and carboxyl group. There are over 20 known amino acids, 8
of which are essential to life.
Proteins are a long chain of amino acids bound together. The linkage
process of each block is performed by the nucleic acids, which are
themselves the made of amino and carboxyl groups.
Polymers
Blocks of monomers
chained together:
Teflon, for example,
looks like a chain of
ethylanes where the
hydrogen has been
replaced by fluoride
atoms:
Next class
• Final exam