What is the "degree of unsaturation"degree of unsaturation with respect to organic molecules?

1 Answer
anor277
Jul 20, 2017

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Explanation:

Alkanes have a general formula of C_nH_(2n+2)CnH2n+2. These are saturated molecules. An olefin, an alkene, has ONE so-called degree of unsaturation. If there is an olefinic bond, OR a ring junction, the formula drops from C_nH_(2n+2)CnH2n+2 to C_nH_(2n)CnH2n, i.e 2 hydrogen LESS than the saturated formula.

Try this out for butane, butane, cyclobutane etc. Does it work?

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