Q. What do you mean by Homologous Series?

Ans.

How can we adequately learn about carbon compounds when there are so many of them?

The answer lies in grouping similar compounds into families. A family of organic compounds is called a homologous series. Compounds within a homologous series are called homologs and show the following characteristics:

They can be represented by the same general formula.

They show a gradual change in physical properties with increase in molecular mass.

They show similar chemical properties.

They can be prepared by similar methods.

In general, a homologous series is a family of compounds all having the same general formula. For example, each member of the alkane family differs from the next by a -CH₂- unit.