What are functional groups, and why are they important?

Verified step by step guidance

1. Functional groups are specific groups of atoms within molecules that have characteristic properties and chemical reactivity.
2. They are important because they determine the chemical behavior of the molecule they are part of, influencing how the molecule interacts with other substances.
3. Functional groups are used to classify organic compounds and predict their reactions. For example, alcohols contain the hydroxyl group (-OH), which makes them polar and capable of forming hydrogen bonds.
4. The presence of functional groups can affect the physical properties of a compound, such as solubility, boiling point, and melting point.
5. Understanding functional groups is crucial in organic chemistry as they are the key to understanding the reactivity and synthesis of organic molecules.