Enols are a type of organic compound characterized by the presence of a hydroxyl group (-OH) attached to a carbon atom that is also part of a carbon-carbon double bond (C=C). This structure makes enols important in various chemical reactions, particularly in the formation of other compounds. They can exist in equilibrium with their corresponding carbonyl compounds, such as ketones and aldehydes. Enols play a significant role in organic chemistry, especially in reactions like tautomerization, where they can convert to their keto forms. They are also involved in processes such as aldol condensation and can act as nucleophiles in various reactions, making them valuable intermediates in synthesizing more complex molecules.