Question

What is a homologous series of carbon compounds ?

Answer 1

Homologous Series : Homologous series is a group of organic compounds having similar structures and similar chemical properties in which the successive compounds differ by CH2CH2 group.
Characteristics of Homologous Series :
1) All the members of a homologous series can be represented by the same general formula.
2) Any two adjacent homologous differ by 1 carbon atom and 2 hydrogen atoms in their molecular formula.
3) The difference in the molecular masses of any two adjacent homologous is 14 units.
4) All the compounds of a homologous series show similar chemical properties.
5) The members of a homologous series show a gradual change in their physical properties with increase in molecular mass.

Answer 2

The physical property of any particular member of a homologous series depends on its size, or its position within the homologous series. The physical properties, such as solubility, melting point, boiling point, specific gravity etc. show a gradual change with the increase in their relative molecular masses.