Homologous series
Homologous series
Formula
CₙH₂ₙ₊₂ (alkanes); CₙH₂ₙ (alkenes)
Real World
Calor Gas sells propane (C₃H₈) for camping stoves and butane (C₄H₁₀) for cigarette lighters — two consecutive members of the alkane homologous series whose different boiling points suit different applications.
Exam Focus
Define all three criteria: same functional group, differ by CH₂, and show a gradual trend in physical properties.
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