Nitrile

Definition

A nitrile is an organic compound that contains a cyano group (–C≡N) attached to an alkyl group. It is characterized by the presence of a carbon triple-bonded to a nitrogen atom.

Related terms

Cyano group: A functional group consisting of a carbon atom triple-bonded to a nitrogen atom.

Alkyl group:

A type of hydrocarbon chain or branch that attaches to functional groups, including cyano groups, in organic compounds.

Organic compound: Any member of a large class of gaseous, liquid, or solid chemical compounds whose molecules contain carbon