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A LevelChemistryCIERevision Notes3. Organic Chemistry3.1 An Introduction to AS Level Organic Chemistry3.1.7 Shapes of Organic Molecules; Sigma & Pi Bonds

Shapes of Organic Molecules; Sigma & Pi Bonds (CIE A Level Chemistry)

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Straight, Branched & Cyclic Molecules

  • Straight, branched and cyclic organic molecules are also called aliphatic compounds as long as they do not contain a benzene ring

Straight-chain

  • Straight-chain organic molecules are those in which the carbon atoms are connected to each other in one continuous chain

 

An Introduction to AS Level Organic Chemistry Straight-Chained, downloadable AS & A Level Chemistry revision notes

Pentane is a straight-chain organic molecule as the carbon atoms are connected in a straight line

Branched

  • Branched organic molecules have side groups attached to the main chain of carbon atoms

 An Introduction to AS Level Organic Chemistry Branched, downloadable AS & A Level Chemistry revision notes

2-methylbutane is a branched organic molecule as the main chain (consisting of 4 carbon atoms) has a methyl branch

Cyclic

  • Cyclic organic molecules are those in which the carbon atoms are connected to each other in a ring shape

 An Introduction to AS Level Organic Chemistry Cyclic, downloadable AS & A Level Chemistry revision notes

Cyclopentane is a cyclic organic molecule as the carbons are attached to each other in a ring structure

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    Francesca

    Author: Francesca

    Expertise: Head of Science

    Fran studied for a BSc in Chemistry with Forensic Science, and since graduating taught A level Chemistry in the UK for over 11 years. She studied for an MBA in Senior Leadership, and has held a number of roles during her time in Education, including Head of Chemistry, Head of Science and most recently as an Assistant Headteacher. In this role, she used her passion for education to drive improvement and success for staff and students across a number of subjects in addition to Science, supporting them to achieve their full potential. Fran has co-written Science textbooks, delivered CPD for teachers, and worked as an examiner for a number of UK exam boards.