NCERT · Class 10 · Science · Carbon and its CompoundsWhat are homologous series? Give one important characteristic.

A homologous series is defined as a family of organic compounds having the same general formula, similar chemical properties, and the same functional group, where each successive member differs from the previous one by a -CH2- group and a molecular mass difference of 14 atomic mass units. One of the most important characteristics of a homologous series is that as the molecular mass increases within the series, a gradual gradation in physical properties is observed, such as an increase in melting and boiling points.