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Ch.4 Introduction to Organic Compounds
Chapter 1, Problem 4.23b

Draw the condensed structural formula for each of the following alkyl groups: (b) methyl

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Identify the structure of a methyl group, which is derived from methane (CH₄) by removing one hydrogen atom.
Recognize that the methyl group is represented as CH₃.
Understand that the condensed structural formula for a methyl group is simply CH₃, indicating three hydrogen atoms bonded to a central carbon atom.
Visualize the methyl group as a part of a larger organic molecule, where it can attach to other atoms or groups.
Remember that the methyl group is often used as a substituent in organic chemistry, affecting the properties and reactivity of the molecules it is part of.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Alkyl Groups

Alkyl groups are derived from alkanes by removing one hydrogen atom, resulting in a functional group that can bond with other atoms. They are characterized by the general formula CnH2n+1, where 'n' represents the number of carbon atoms. Methyl, for example, is the simplest alkyl group with one carbon atom (C1) and three hydrogen atoms (H3), represented as -CH3.
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Condensed Structural Formula

A condensed structural formula is a way of representing a chemical structure that shows the arrangement of atoms in a molecule without depicting all the bonds explicitly. It simplifies the representation by grouping atoms together, making it easier to visualize the structure. For methyl, the condensed structural formula is simply written as CH3, indicating one carbon atom bonded to three hydrogen atoms.
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Structural Representation

Structural representation in chemistry refers to the various ways of depicting the arrangement of atoms within a molecule. This can include Lewis structures, condensed formulas, and skeletal formulas. Understanding these representations is crucial for interpreting chemical structures and reactions, as they provide insight into the connectivity and functional groups present in the molecule.
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