alkyl
Definition
Noun: 1. A univalent radical derived from an aliphatic hydrocarbon: An "alkyl" is a type of functional group in organic chemistry. It consists of carbon and hydrogen atoms arranged in a chain, with one bonding site (univalent) available to attach to other atoms or groups. Its general molecular formula is CₙH₂ₙ₊₁, where "n" represents the number of carbon atoms.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- Methane (CH₄) loses a hydrogen atom to form the methyl alkyl group (CH₃-).
- The properties of an alcohol depend partly on the size of the alkyl chain attached to the oxygen-hydrogen (OH) group.
- In the molecule ethylbenzene, an ethyl alkyl group is bonded to a benzene ring.
Advanced Usage
- Alkylating Agent: A compound that can transfer an alkyl group to another molecule. This is a crucial concept in organic synthesis and some chemotherapy drugs.
- The drug acts as an alkylating agent, disrupting the DNA of cancer cells.
Variants and Related Words
- Alkane (n): The parent saturated hydrocarbon from which an alkyl group is formally derived by removing one hydrogen atom (e.g., methane -> methyl).
- Alkyl Group (n): A synonymous term often used interchangeably with "alkyl."
- Methyl, Ethyl, Propyl, Butyl (n): Specific names for alkyl groups with 1, 2, 3, and 4 carbon atoms, respectively.
Synonyms
- Alkyl radical (n): A less common but technically accurate synonym, emphasizing its nature as a radical (a group with an unpaired electron in its theoretical, unbound form).
Noun
-
any of a series of univalent groups of the general formula CnH2n+1 derived from aliphatic hydrocarbons
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