Organic Chemistry Functional Group General Formulas

Alcohols are a class of organic compounds that contain a hydroxyl (-OH) group bonded to a carbon atom. They are characterized by the presence of this functional group and can be classified based on the number of hydroxyl groups attached to the carbon atom. Alcohols are commonly used as solvents, fuels, and in the production of various chemicals.

Amines are organic compounds that contain a nitrogen atom bonded to one or more carbon atoms. They are derived from ammonia by replacing one or more hydrogen atoms with alkyl or aryl groups. Amines can be classified as primary, secondary, or tertiary depending on the number of carbon groups attached to the nitrogen atom. They are commonly used in various applications such as pharmaceuticals, dyes, and solvents. Amines have a wide range of chemical and physical properties, making them an important class of compounds in organic chemistry.

Carboxylic acids are a class of organic compounds that contain a carboxyl group (-COOH). They are characterized by the presence of a carbonyl group (C=O) and a hydroxyl group (OH) attached to the same carbon atom. Carboxylic acids are commonly found in nature, such as in vinegar (acetic acid) and citrus fruits (citric acid). They are known for their acidic properties and can be used in various industrial applications, such as in the production of plastics, pharmaceuticals, and food additives.

Ethers are a class of organic compounds that contain an oxygen atom bonded to two carbon atoms. They are characterized by the general formula R-O-R', where R and R' are alkyl or aryl groups. Ethers are commonly used as solvents and as starting materials for the synthesis of other organic compounds. They have a relatively low boiling point and are less reactive compared to other functional groups like alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids, and esters.

Aldehydes are a class of organic compounds that contain a carbonyl group (-CHO) attached to at least one hydrogen atom. They are characterized by their distinct odor and are commonly used in the production of various chemicals and pharmaceuticals. Aldehydes also play a crucial role in biological processes, such as metabolism and signaling.

Ketones are a type of organic compound that contain a carbonyl group bonded to two carbon atoms. They are formed by the oxidation of secondary alcohols or the cleavage of certain types of esters. Ketones are characterized by their distinct chemical properties and reactivity. They are commonly used as solvents, intermediates in organic synthesis, and flavoring agents. Ketones are different from other compounds listed in the options such as alcohols, ethers, aldehydes, carboxylic acids, and esters, as they have a specific structure and functional group arrangement.

Esters are organic compounds that are formed by the reaction between an alcohol and an organic acid. They have a distinctive fruity smell and are commonly used in perfumes and flavorings. Esters are characterized by their functional group, which consists of a carbonyl group bonded to an oxygen atom, which in turn is bonded to an alkyl or aryl group. They are different from other compounds listed in the options, such as alcohols, ethers, aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids, and amines, due to their unique chemical structure and properties.