Functional

Definition

In organic chemistry, functional groups are specific groups of atoms within molecules that are responsible for the characteristic chemical reactions of those molecules. They act as the reactive part of the molecule, determining its properties and reactivity.

Related terms

Alkanes: Hydrocarbons consisting entirely of single-bonded carbon and hydrogen atoms, exhibiting relatively low reactivity due to the absence of functional groups.

Alkenes: Unsaturated hydrocarbons containing at least one carbon-carbon double bond, acting as a functional group that increases the molecule's reactivity.

Alcohol: Organic compounds in which a hydroxyl group (-OH) is bound to a saturated carbon atom, serving as a functional group that influences the compound's physical and chemical properties