amino group

Thân thiện

A chemist draws the structure of an amino group on a whiteboard.

Definition

Noun: - The univalent chemical group -NH₂: A functional group in organic chemistry consisting of a nitrogen atom bonded to two hydrogen atoms. This group is basic in nature and is a key component of amino acids and many other organic compounds.

Usage

• As a subject: The amino group is essential for protein structure.
• As an object: This reaction replaces the hydrogen with an amino group.
• With a modifier: The primary amino group in glycine is reactive.

Examples

• The amino group (-NH₂) gives amino acids their basic properties.
• In this molecule, an amino group is attached to the carbon chain.
• The presence of an amino group is critical for the compound's biological activity.

Advanced Usage

• "Free amino group": Refers to an amino group that is not part of an amide or peptide bond and is therefore chemically reactive.
  • The N-terminal residue of a peptide has a free amino group.
• "Primary amino group": Specifically denotes the -NH₂ group, as opposed to secondary (-NH-) or tertiary (=N-) amines.
  • Methylamine contains a primary amino group.

Variants and Related Words

• Amino (adjective): Pertaining to or containing an amino group.
  • Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins.
• Amine (noun): An organic compound derived from ammonia by replacement of one or more hydrogen atoms by organic groups. Amines contain the amino group as part of their structure.
  • Methylamine is a simple amine.

Synonyms

• -NH₂ group: A direct synonym using the chemical formula.
• Amino radical: An equivalent term, especially in older chemical nomenclature.

Notes on Meaning

This term refers specifically to the -NH₂ functional group. It is distinct from the broader term "amine," which is a class of compounds containing this group. The amino group's ability to accept a proton (H⁺) makes it a basic site in organic molecules.

Học thuật

Noun

1. the radical -NH2

Từ đồng nghĩa

• amino