write short note on homologous series of its characteristics with suitable example?

Homologous series is a series of similarly constituted compounds in which the members possess the same functional group and have similar characteristics.The various members of the particular homologous series are called homologues.
Characteristics of homologous series:-
1.All the members can be represented by same general formula.
2.Any 2 consecutive members differ in their formula by a commom difference of -CH2.
3.Different members have common functional group.
4.Members of any particular family have almost identical chemical properties.Their physical properties show gradual gradation with increase in the molecular mass.
5.Members differ by molecular mass of 14.
6.The members can be prepared almost by the identical methods known as general methods of preparation.
For example:-
Homologous series of alkanes:-
Molecular General Name Differ by
Formula Formula
1. CH₄ C_nH_2n+2 Methane
2.C₂H₆ C_nH_2n+2 Ethane -CH₂
3.C₃H₈ C_nH_2n+2 Propane -CH₂
4.C₄H₁₀ C_nH_2n+2 Butane -CH₂
Thanks & Regard
Aarti Gupta
askiitians Faculty