Functional groups determine the properties of organic molecules from "summary" of Chemistry by Russell Kuhtz
Functional groups play a crucial role in determining the properties of organic molecules. These groups consist of specific arrangements of atoms within a molecule that impart distinct chemical and physical characteristics to the compound. For example, the presence of a hydroxyl group (-OH) typically results in molecules that are polar and can form hydrogen bonds, making them soluble in water. This is evident in alcohols such as ethanol, which exhibit these properties due to the hydroxyl group. Similarly, the presence of a carboxyl group (-COOH) imparts acidic properties to organic molecules. Carboxylic acids, like acetic acid, contain this functional group which can donate a hydrogen ion, resulting in acidic behavior. On the other hand, the amino group (-NH2) confers basic properties to molecules. Amines, like ammonia, can accept a proton to form an ammonium ion, displaying basic characteristics. Moreover, the presence of functional groups can also influence the reactivity of organic molecules. For instance, the presence of a double bond in an alkene makes it more reactive compared to an alkane due to the presence of pi bonds. This reactivity can lead to various chemical reactions such as addition reactions, where new atoms are added to the molecule. Additionally, functional groups can determine the biological activity of organic compounds. For example, the presence of a phosphate group (-PO4H2) in nucleotides is essential for their role in storing and transferring genetic information. This functional group allows nucleotides to participate in crucial biological processes such as DNA replication and protein synthesis.- Functional groups serve as the building blocks of organic molecules, dictating their properties, reactivity, and biological functions. Understanding the role of these groups is fundamental in comprehending the behavior of organic compounds in various chemical and biological contexts.
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