Of the following functional groups, which is/are polar, tending to make organic compounds hydrophilic? a.carbonyl b. amino c. hydroxyl d. all of the above

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the characteristics of polar functional groups. Polar groups typically have an uneven distribution of electrons, which can create partial positive and negative charges.
2. Examine the carbonyl group (C=O). This group has a double bond between carbon and oxygen, where oxygen is more electronegative, pulling electron density towards itself and creating a polar bond.
3. Analyze the amino group (NH2). This group contains nitrogen bonded to hydrogen(s). Nitrogen is more electronegative than hydrogen, leading to a polar bond and making the group capable of forming hydrogen bonds with water.
4. Review the hydroxyl group (OH). This group consists of an oxygen bonded to a hydrogen. Oxygen, being more electronegative, creates a polar bond.
5. Conclude that all the listed groups (carbonyl, amino, hydroxyl) are polar and contribute to the hydrophilicity of organic compounds.

Key Concepts

Functional Groups

Functional groups are specific groups of atoms within molecules that are responsible for the characteristic chemical reactions of those molecules. They determine the properties of organic compounds, including their polarity and solubility. Common functional groups include hydroxyl, carbonyl, and amino groups, each influencing the behavior of the compound in biological systems.

Polarity

Polarity refers to the distribution of electrical charge over the atoms in a molecule. A polar molecule has a partial positive charge on one side and a partial negative charge on the other, leading to an uneven distribution of charge. This property affects how molecules interact with each other, particularly in terms of solubility in water, where polar molecules tend to be hydrophilic (water-attracting).

Hydrophilicity

Hydrophilicity is the property of a substance to interact favorably with water, often due to the presence of polar functional groups. Compounds that are hydrophilic can form hydrogen bonds with water, making them soluble in aqueous environments. This characteristic is crucial for biological molecules, as it influences their behavior in cellular processes and interactions.