Ethyl group

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Ethyl group is a functional group in organic chemistry, consisting of two carbon and five hydrogen atoms, with the formula -C2H5. It is derived from the alkane ethane (C2H6) by removal of one hydrogen atom. The name "ethyl" was coined in 1835 by the Swedish chemist Jöns Jacob Berzelius.

Structure and properties[edit | edit source]

The ethyl group, like other alkyl groups, is a hydrocarbon group. It is a part of many organic compounds, including many common solvents, fuels, and intoxicants. The ethyl group is a component of ethanol, the active ingredient in alcoholic beverages.

The ethyl group is a type of alkyl group, which is a group of atoms that is derived from an alkane by removing one hydrogen atom. The ethyl group has the formula -C2H5, which means it consists of two carbon atoms and five hydrogen atoms.

Uses[edit | edit source]

The ethyl group is used in a variety of applications in chemistry. It is often used as a substituent in organic synthesis, where it can be used to modify the properties of other compounds. For example, the addition of an ethyl group to a molecule can increase its lipophilicity, which can improve its absorption in the body.

In addition, the ethyl group is a key component of many important chemicals and materials. For example, it is a part of ethanol, which is used as a solvent, a fuel, and a key ingredient in alcoholic beverages. It is also a part of ethyl ether, which is a common laboratory solvent.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


Ethyl group Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD