🥼organic chemistry review

Geminal

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

In organic chemistry, geminal refers to the position of two substituents attached to the same carbon atom. This term is often used when discussing functional groups or atoms in molecules, especially in the context of hydration reactions where water adds to aldehydes and ketones.