The hydroxyl group, represented as "•OH," consists of an oxygen atom bonded to a hydrogen atom. It is a key functional group in organic chemistry, often found in alcohols and phenols. The presence of the hydroxyl group can significantly influence the properties of a molecule, such as its solubility and reactivity. In biological systems, the hydroxyl group plays a crucial role in the structure of carbohydrates, proteins, and nucleic acids. For example, in glucose, the hydroxyl groups contribute to its ability to form hydrogen bonds, affecting its interactions with other molecules and its overall function in living organisms.