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A LevelChemistryCIERevision Notes13. An Introduction to AS Level Organic Chemistry13.3 Shapes of Organic Molecules; σ & π BondsShapes of Organic Molecules; σ & π Bonds

Shapes of Organic Molecules; σ & π Bonds (CIE A Level Chemistry)

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Philippa Platt

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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

 A straight-chain organic molecule

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

A branched organic moleculeAn 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

A cyclic organic molecule

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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    Philippa Platt

    Author: Philippa Platt

    Expertise: Chemistry

    Philippa has worked as a GCSE and A level chemistry teacher and tutor for over thirteen years. She studied chemistry and sport science at Loughborough University graduating in 2007 having also completed her PGCE in science. Throughout her time as a teacher she was incharge of a boarding house for five years and coached many teams in a variety of sports. When not producing resources with the chemistry team, Philippa enjoys being active outside with her young family and is a very keen gardener.