The name of a compound is based on the number of carbon atoms in the chain. For instance, a three-carbon chain is named propane.

The chemical properties of compounds within a homologous series are primarily determined by the functional group. Despite differences in carbon chain lengths, compounds with the same functional group exhibit similar chemical reactions and behaviors.

In a homologous series, physical properties such as melting and boiling points exhibit a gradation with increasing molecular mass. This trend is observed because larger molecules generally have stronger intermolecular forces, leading to higher melting and boiling points.

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 ...

Functional groups are specific arrangements of atoms within a molecule, and they are denoted by their free valency. These groups, containing heteroatoms, confer distinct properties to carbon compounds, independent of the carbon chain’s characteristics.