Benzyl group

Definition

A benzyl group consists of a benzene ring attached to a methylene (-CH2) group. It is a common substituent in organic chemistry that affects the reactivity and properties of molecules.

Related terms

Benzene:

A cyclic hydrocarbon with a formula C6H6, characterized by alternating double and single bonds between carbon atoms forming a ring.

Substituent:

An atom or group of atoms that replaces hydrogen on a parent hydrocarbon molecule and changes its properties.

Aromaticity:

A property of cyclic (ring-shaped), planar (flat) structures with a conjugated pi electron system that leads to unusual stability due to electron delocalization within the ring