functional group
A functional group is a specific group of atoms within a molecule that is responsible for the characteristic chemical reactions of that molecule. These groups determine the properties and reactivity of organic compounds, influencing how they interact with other substances. Common functional groups include hydroxyl, carboxyl, and amino groups.
Functional groups are essential in organic chemistry because they help classify compounds and predict their behavior. For example, the presence of a hydroxyl group indicates that a compound is an alcohol, while a carboxyl group signifies a carboxylic acid. Understanding functional groups is crucial for studying chemical reactions and designing new molecules.