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Cycloalkanes |
Chapter 2: Alkanes |
In order to view some of the structures for this section, you will need the web "plug-in", "CHIME". If you do not have it already installed, you should be able to download it for free from the linked Website. CHIME is a browser that allows you to visualize and manipulate molecules as 3D structures. Check here if you don't know how to use Chime.
Another type of molecule containing only sp3 hybridized C and H atoms connected by s bonds is possible with a ring of 3 or more C atoms. These are the cycloalkanes which are fairly common in the world of organic chemistry, both man-made and natural.
Nomenclature:
Functional group prefix = cyclo- (review)
Physical
Properties:
Like alkanes, the low polarity of all the bonds in cycloalkanes means that the
only intermolecular forces between molecules of cycloalkanes are the very weak
induced dipole - induced dipole forces, also known as london forces which
are easily overcome. As a result, compared to other functional groups,
but like alkanes, cycloakanes tend to have low melting and boiling points.
Structure:
They have a generic formula of CnH2n, (note: there 2 less
H atoms compared to the analogous alkane).
The C3 to C6 cycloalkanes are shown below in a variety of representations.
| Cyclopropane
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| Cyclobutane
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| Cyclopentane
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| Cyclohexane
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