Hydroxyl group

Hydroxyl Group

The Hydroxyl group is a functional group consisting of a hydrogen atom covalently bonded to an oxygen atom. It is represented by the chemical formula -OH. The presence of a hydroxyl group in a molecule can significantly alter its properties and behavior.

Chemical Properties

The hydroxyl group is a polar entity due to the electronegativity difference between the oxygen and hydrogen atoms. This polarity allows it to form hydrogen bonds with other molecules, which can significantly influence the physical and chemical properties of the compound it is part of.

Role in Organic Compounds

In organic chemistry, the hydroxyl group is a common functional group found in many types of organic compounds. It is a key component of alcohols, where it is directly bonded to a carbon atom. The presence of a hydroxyl group in an alcohol allows it to engage in hydrogen bonding, making alcohols more soluble in water than similar hydrocarbons.

Role in Biochemistry

In biochemistry, hydroxyl groups are found in many important biomolecules, including carbohydrates, nucleic acids, and proteins. They play a crucial role in many biochemical reactions, such as the formation and breakage of polymers.

See Also

• Alcohol (chemistry)
• Carboxyl group
• Amine group
• Phosphate group

References

Hydroxyl group Resources
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