AlkanesAlcohols Carboxylic acids Esters Sort the statement cards. Compare pairs of compounds e.g. alcohols and alkanes – similarities and differences.

Burn in air to give carbon dioxide and water. Saturated – ALL C-C bonds are SINGLE. e.g. propane Does NOT react with acids or alkalis – the C-C and C-H bonds are difficult to break. Oily – do not dissolve in water. Does NOT react with sodium. Up to 4 carbon atoms = gases carbon atoms = liquids. More than 17 carbon atoms = solids e.g. methanol – used to make adhesives, solvents, windscreen washer fluid. e.g. ethanol – useful solvent, used in cosmetics and perfumes because it evaporates. e.g. ethanol – can be used as a fuel. CH 4 C 2 H 5 OH C3H8C3H8 CH 3 OH 1 Carbon and 2 Carbon compounds are liquids at room temperature. Strong attractive forces between molecules.

1 carbon and 2 carbon compounds mix with water. Flammable. React with sodium in a similar way to water. Produced by the oxidation of an alcohol. Functional group = COOH Weak acids because only a small proportion of the molecules ionise to produce hydrogen ions H+. Have characteristic reactions of acids. e.g. Vinegar (ethanoic acid) ‘Smelly’ compounds. Also used as solvents (nail varnish remover). Used in perfumes and food flavouring. Ripe pineapple contains ethyl ethanoate. Used as plasticisers to soften polymers. Fats and vegetable oil have more than one ester link. Formed by reaction of an alcohol and a carboxylic acid – requires heat and a strong acid catalyst.

Alkenes are similar to alkanes but contain an unsaturated C=C, double bond.