An ethyl group is a functional group in organic chemistry that consists of two carbon atoms and five hydrogen atoms, represented as C2H5. It is derived from ethane, which is a simple alkane. The ethyl group is often found in various organic compounds, where it can influence the chemical properties and reactivity of the molecule. In structural formulas, the ethyl group is typically depicted as -C2H5 or -CH2CH3. It can be attached to other atoms or groups, making it a common building block in the synthesis of more complex organic molecules, including alcohols, esters, and amines.