What is a homologous series ? Explain with an example.

Explanation

A homologous series is a group or family of compounds which contains the same functional group but have different chain lengths. Thus, these have the same chemical properties but different physical properties that vary in a regular manner.
Characteristics of a homologous series are:
(i) It has a general formula in terms of number of carbon atoms.
(ii) It has the same functional group, if any.
(iii) The members of a homologous series, i.e., homologous, have similar chemical properties.
(iv) Various homologous can be prepared by the general method of preparation for the series.
(v) Two successive (adjacent) homologous differ by 1 carbon atom and 2 hydrogen atoms in their molecular formulae.
(vi) The member of a homologous series show a gradual change in their physical properties with increase in molecular mass.