11.1.3

Functional Groups

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Functional Groups

Functional groups are atoms or groups of atoms in molecules that give homologous series their chemical properties.

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What is a functional group?

  • A functional group is an atom or group of atoms in an organic molecule.
    • The functional group controls the chemical properties of the molecule.
    • Molecules with the same functional group belong to a homologous series.
  • Functional groups cause similar reactions in compounds within a series.
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Importance of functional groups

  • Functional groups help chemists predict how molecules will react.
    • Identifying functional groups helps name organic compounds correctly.
  • Functional groups allow classification of organic compounds into families.
  • Different functional groups make molecules behave differently in experiments.
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Examples of common functional groups

  • Alcohol group: –OH (hydroxyl group), found in alcohols.
  • Carboxylic acid group: –COOH, found in carboxylic acids.
  • Alkene group: –C=C–, found in alkenes (unsaturated hydrocarbons).
  • Halogen group: –X (where X = Cl, Br, I), found in halogenoalkanes.
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Summary and applications

  • Functional groups define the chemical behaviour of organic substances.
    • Chemists use functional groups to predict reactions and properties.
  • Knowledge of functional groups is essential for understanding organic chemistry.
    • Functional groups link structure and function in organic compounds.

Jump to other topics

1States of Matter

2Atoms, Elements & Compounds

3Stoichometry

4Electrochemistry

5Chemical Energetics

6Chemical Reactions

7Acids, Bases & Salts

8The Periodic Table

9Metals

10Chemistry of the Environment

11Organic Chemistry

11.1Formulae, Functional Groups & Terminology

11.2Naming Organic Compounds

11.3Fuels

11.4Alkanes

11.5Alkenes

11.6Alcohols

11.7Carboxylic Acids

11.8Polymers

12Experimental Techniques & Chemical Analysis

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