Butyl group

Butyl group is a four-carbon substituent in organic chemistry. It is derived from the alkane butane and has the molecular formula C4H9. The term butyl is used in organic chemistry to describe the butyl functional group. The prefix "butyl" is derived from the word "butyric," which in turn comes from the Latin "butyrum," meaning butter.

Structure and properties

The butyl group, with four carbon atoms connected to each other in a straight chain, is a type of alkyl group. It is a part of larger molecules and can be found in various types of compounds, including alcohols, ethers, and halides. The butyl group is nonpolar and hydrophobic, meaning it does not mix well with water. However, it can dissolve in organic solvents.

Types of butyl groups

There are four isomers of the butyl group, each with a different structure:

• n-Butyl group (n-C4H9): This is the unbranched isomer with the structure CH3CH2CH2CH2.
• Isobutyl group (i-C4H9): This is the isomer with the structure (CH3)2CHCH2.
• Sec-butyl group (s-C4H9): This is the isomer with the structure CH3CH2CH(CH3).
• Tert-butyl group (t-C4H9): This is the highly branched isomer with the structure (CH3)3C.

Uses

Butyl groups are commonly used in organic synthesis. They can be added to other molecules to increase their size or to change their properties. For example, butyl groups are often used to increase the hydrophobicity of a molecule, making it more soluble in organic solvents.

See also

• Alkyl group
• Functional group
• Organic chemistry

References

Butyl group Resources
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