Degree of unsaturation

Definition

The degree of unsaturation in a molecule indicates the total number of pi bonds and rings present. It provides insight into the molecule's complexity by revealing how many double bonds, triple bonds, or rings it contains.

Related terms

Alkenes: Hydrocarbons characterized by having at least one carbon-carbon double bond in their structure.

Pi bond: A type of covalent bond formed by the sideways overlap of atomic orbitals, found in double and triple bonds between atoms.

Ring Strain: The destabilizing force within a cyclic molecule that arises from the geometric constraints of forming a ring; influences reactivity and stability.