A homologous series is a group of organic compounds with similar chemical properties due to the presence of the same functional group, substituting hydrogen atoms in a carbon chain. Despite varying carbon chain lengths, the chemical behavior is primarily determined by the functional group.
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A homologous series in organic chemistry refers to a group of organic compounds with similar chemical properties due to the presence of the same functional group, despite variations in the length of the carbon chain. These compounds share a common structural feature, allowing for systematic nomenclature and predictable chemical behaviors. The series is characterized by a gradual increase in molecular mass, leading to a gradation in physical properties such as melting and boiling points. The chemical properties, governed by the functional group, remain consistent within the homologous series, providing a basis for understanding and categorizing a diverse range of organic compounds.