Understanding Hydroxyl Groups: Types and Functions in Organic Compounds

– contain Hydroxyl group (OH) – suffix ol or hydroxy if a higher priority group is present- Diols contain two hydroxyl groups. * Geminal: 2 Hydroxyl groups on the same carbon* Vicinal: on adjacent carbons

Alcohols

1. What is a hydroxyl group?

A hydroxyl group (-OH) is a functional group consisting of an oxygen atom and a hydrogen atom that are covalently bonded to a carbon atom in a molecule. Hydroxyl groups are highly polar and can participate in hydrogen bonding, making them important in various chemical reactions and biological processes.

2. How is a hydroxyl group indicated in a molecule’s name?

The hydroxyl group is indicated in a molecule’s name by adding the suffix “ol” or “hydroxy” to the root name of the parent compound, depending on whether it is the highest priority functional group or not. For example, the compound with a hydroxyl group attached to a benzene ring is called phenol, while the compound with both a hydroxyl and a carbonyl group is called 2-hydroxypropanal.

3. What is a diol?

A diol is a type of organic compound that contains two hydroxyl (-OH) groups on separate carbon atoms in its molecular structure. They are also referred to as glycols. Diols are used in the manufacture of various solvents, resins, and polymers.

4. What are geminal diols?

A geminal diol is a type of diol in which two hydroxyl (-OH) groups are attached to the same carbon atom in a molecule. They are also known as hydrates or bis-hydroxyl compounds. Examples of geminal diols include formaldehyde hydrate and acetaldehyde hydrate.

5. What are vicinal diols?

Vicinal diols are a type of diol in which two hydroxyl (-OH) groups are attached to adjacent carbon atoms in a molecule. They are sometimes also referred to as glycols. Examples of vicinal diols include ethylene glycol (used in antifreeze) and 1,2-propanediol (used in cosmetics and food products).

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