Functional group

Functional group is a group of atoms within molecules that are involved in predictable reactions. These groups are made up of one or more atoms and are responsible for the characteristic chemical reactions of those molecules. The same functional group will undergo the same or similar chemical reaction(s) regardless of the size of the molecule it is a part of.

Overview

Functional groups are specific groups of atoms within molecules that are responsible for the characteristic chemical reactions of those molecules. The same functional group will undergo the same or similar chemical reaction(s) regardless of the size of the molecule it is a part of. However, its relative reactivity can be modified by other functional groups nearby.

Types of Functional Groups

Functional groups can be classified into several broad categories including hydrocarbons, halocarbons, alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids, esters, amides, amines, aromatics, and heterocycles. Each of these groups has unique properties and reacts in a predictable way.

Importance in Biochemistry

Functional groups play a significant role in biochemistry. For instance, they are responsible for the formation of lipids, proteins, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids, the four major types of biomolecules. The functional groups within these molecules interact with each other and with other molecules to carry out various biological processes.

See Also

• Chemistry
• Organic Chemistry
• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology

References

Functional group Resources
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