Carbon skeleton

Definition

A carbon skeleton is the chain or ring of carbon atoms that forms the fundamental structure of an organic molecule. It provides the backbone to which various functional groups attach, thereby determining the molecule's overall properties and functions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Carbon skeletons can be straight chains, branched chains, or rings.
2. The length and shape of the carbon skeleton influence the molecule's properties and biological function.
3. Carbon skeletons are foundational in forming complex molecules like lipids, carbohydrates, proteins, and nucleic acids.
4. Isomers are compounds with the same molecular formula but different carbon skeleton structures.
5. Functional groups attached to a carbon skeleton determine its reactivity and interaction with other molecules.

Review Questions

Related terms

Functional Group: A specific group of atoms within a molecule that is responsible for certain characteristic chemical reactions.

Isomer: Compounds with the same molecular formula but different structural arrangements.

Hydrocarbon: An organic compound consisting entirely of hydrogen and carbon atoms.