Calculate the number of elements of unsaturation implied by the molecular ­formula C₆H₁₂.
Hint: If you prefer to use a formula, elements of unsaturation = 1/2(2C + 2 - H)
C = number of carbons
H = number of hydrogens

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the given molecular formula: C6H12, where C represents carbon and H represents hydrogen.
2. Recall the formula for calculating elements of unsaturation: \( \text{Elements of Unsaturation} = \frac{1}{2}(2C + 2 - H) \).
3. Substitute the number of carbons (C = 6) and hydrogens (H = 12) into the formula: \( \text{Elements of Unsaturation} = \frac{1}{2}(2 \times 6 + 2 - 12) \).
4. Simplify the expression inside the parentheses: \( 2 \times 6 + 2 - 12 = 12 + 2 - 12 \).
5. Calculate the final expression to determine the elements of unsaturation: \( \frac{1}{2}(2) \).

Key Concepts

Elements of Unsaturation

Elements of unsaturation, also known as degrees of unsaturation, indicate the number of rings and/or multiple bonds (double or triple) present in a molecule. It helps in determining the structure of organic compounds by providing insight into the possible presence of pi bonds or cyclic structures.

Molecular Formula

A molecular formula represents the number and type of atoms in a molecule. For C6H12, it indicates the molecule contains six carbon atoms and twelve hydrogen atoms. Understanding the molecular formula is crucial for calculating elements of unsaturation and deducing structural information about the compound.

Unsaturation Calculation Formula

The formula for calculating elements of unsaturation is 1/2(2C + 2 - H), where C is the number of carbon atoms and H is the number of hydrogen atoms. This formula helps determine the total number of rings and multiple bonds in a molecule, providing a quick method to assess structural features from the molecular formula.