Define Homologous Series.
A homologous series is a group of organic compounds having similar structures and similar chemical properties in which the successive compounds differ by CH2 group.
Characteristics of a Homologous Series :
- All the members of a homologous series can be represented by the same general formula.
- Any two adjacent homologous differ by 1 carbon atom and 2 hydrogen atoms in their molecular formulae.
- The difference in the molecular masses of any two adjacent homologous is 14 u.
- All the compounds of a homologous series show similar chemical properties.
- The members of a homologous series show a gradual change in their physical properties with increase in molecular mass.