Question

Which among the following statement is NOT true about homologous series of organic compounds?

• A. Each member of a series differs by two carbon atoms and two H atoms from neighbouring member.
• B. All members have similar chemical properties.
• C. All members of series have same type of carbon skeleton.
• D. All members of series are represented by same general formula.

Hint:

To spot the error instantly, look at a real example like methane ($\mathrm{CH}_4$) and ethane ($\mathrm{C}_2\mathrm{H}_6$). The difference between them is exactly $1\ \mathrm{C}$ and $2\ \mathrm{H}$ atoms ($-\mathrm{CH}_2-$). Any statement claiming a jump of two carbon atoms is an immediate error.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
Four statements about homologous series are provided; identify the one that is incorrect.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
(B) is true: all members contain the identical functional group, governing their similar chemistry. (C) is true: the fundamental carbon skeleton style remains uniform throughout the series. (D) is true: every homologous series follows a general molecular formula (e.g., CₙH₂ₙ₊₂ for alkanes). (A) is false: adjacent homologs differ by exactly one methylene (-CH₂-) unit, meaning one carbon and two hydrogens—not two carbons and two hydrogens as the statement claims.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The false statement is option (A).