Hydroxyl Group
Definition
A hydroxyl group is a functional group consisting of one oxygen atom covalently bonded to one hydrogen atom (-OH). It makes a molecule polar and increases its ability to form hydrogen bonds.
Analogy
Think of the hydroxyl group as the social butterfly at a party. Just like how this person can easily mingle and connect with others, the hydroxyl group allows molecules to interact better with each other through hydrogen bonding.
Related terms
Alcohol: This is an organic compound that contains one or more hydroxyl groups attached to a carbon atom.
Phenol: This is an aromatic compound that contains a hydroxyl group directly bonded to an aromatic ring, much like a charm on a bracelet.
Carboxylic Acid: This is an organic compound containing both a carbonyl (>C=O) and a hydroxyl (–OH) group on the same carbon atom.
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