(b) What functional group characterizes an alcohol?

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 and reactivity of organic compounds. Understanding functional groups is essential for identifying and classifying organic molecules.

Alcohols

Alcohols are organic compounds that contain one or more hydroxyl (-OH) groups attached to a carbon atom. The presence of the hydroxyl group is what characterizes alcohols and influences their physical and chemical properties, such as solubility and boiling point.

Hydroxyl Group

The hydroxyl group (-OH) is a functional group consisting of an oxygen atom bonded to a hydrogen atom. It is polar, which allows alcohols to engage in hydrogen bonding, leading to higher boiling points compared to hydrocarbons of similar molecular weight. This group is fundamental in defining the behavior of alcohols in chemical reactions.