Alkyl compounds are organic molecules that contain carbon and hydrogen atoms arranged in a branched or straight chain. They are derived from alkanes, which are saturated hydrocarbons, meaning they have single bonds between carbon atoms. Common examples include methane, ethane, and propane. Alkyl groups can be attached to other functional groups, influencing the properties and reactivity of the compound. Aryl compounds, on the other hand, are derived from arenes, which are aromatic hydrocarbons characterized by a ring structure with alternating double bonds. The most common aryl compound is benzene, which has a stable ring of six carbon atoms. Aryl groups are often involved in various chemical reactions and are important in the synthesis of many pharmaceuticals and dyes.