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CAIE IGCSE Chemistry Homologous Series Definition

CAIE IGCSE Chemistry Homologous Series Definition
Cambridge IGCSE Chemistry 0620 syllabus for exams in 2026, 2027 and 20282026–2028

Practise defining a homologous series and using functional groups, general formulae and chemical properties to decide whether compounds belong together.

How this is tested

  • define a homologous series as a family with the same functional group and general formula
  • explain similar chemical properties through the presence of the same functional group
  • compare structures or formulae to decide which compounds belong to the same series

Question 5(a)

[Maximum number: 1]

Propane, propene, propan-1-ol and propanoic acid are members of different homologous series. Molecules of these substances contain three carbon atoms.

Explain why members of a homologous series have similar chemical properties.