Compounds within a homologous series differ from each other by a constant molecular formula unit, typically a CH2 group, resulting in differences in molecular size and mass. However, they share similar chemical properties due to the presence of the same functional group.
Share
Compounds within a homologous series differ primarily in their molecular size, structure, and associated physical and chemical properties. While they share the same functional group, such as hydroxyl (-OH) in alcohols or carboxyl (-COOH) in carboxylic acids, the number of carbon and hydrogen atoms in the carbon chain varies between members of the series. This leads to differences in molecular formulas, molecular weights, and structural arrangements. Consequently, properties such as boiling point, melting point, density, and solubility gradually change with increasing molecular size. However, despite these variations, compounds within a homologous series exhibit similar chemical reactivity and characteristic behavior due to the presence of the common functional group.