CHARACTERIS ATION OF ORGANIC COMPOUNDS
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Subject: Chemistry
Class: SHS 2
Term: 2nd Term
Week: 19
Grade code: 2.3.2.LI.4
Strand code: 3
Sub-strand code: 1
Content standard code: 2.3.2.CS.1
Indicator code: 2.3.2.LI.4
Theme: CHEMISTRY OF CARBON COMPOUNDS
Subtheme: CHARACTERIS ATION OF ORGANIC COMPOUNDS
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Alkanols, commonly known as alcohols, are a vital class of organic compounds we encounter daily. From the locally produced *akpeteshie* and palm wine (which contain ethanol) to the hand sanitizers we use for hygiene, and the rubbing alcohol in our first aid boxes, alkanols are deeply integrated into Ghanaian life. They are also crucial in medicine, industry, and as potential biofuels. In this lesson, we will explore the world of alkanols, learning how to name them, how they are made, what makes them behave the way they do, and how we can identify them.
2.1 Introduction to Alkanols
Alkanols are a homologous series of organic compounds containing the hydroxyl (-OH) functional group attached to a saturated carbon atom. Their general formula is CₙH₂ₙ₊₁OH, where n ≥ 1.
The "-OH" group is responsible for most of the characteristic properties of alkanols.
Homologous Series of Alkanols (First 6 Members)