Functional Groups

Front

What is a functional group?

Back

A functional group is a specific group of atoms within a molecule that is responsible for the characteristic chemical reactions of that molecule.

Front

What are amines?

Back

Amines are organic compounds that contain a basic nitrogen atom with a lone pair. They are derived from ammonia and can act as bases.

Front

What is the carboxyl group?

Back

The carboxyl group (-COOH) is a functional group that has acidic properties and is found in carboxylic acids.

Front

What is the hydroxyl group?

Back

The hydroxyl group (-OH) is a functional group that is polar and can form hydrogen bonds, making compounds containing it soluble in water.

Front

What is the phosphate group?

Back

The phosphate group (-PO4) is a functional group that is important in energy transfer (ATP) and is found in nucleic acids.

Front

What is the sulfhydryl group?

Back

The sulfhydryl group (-SH) is a functional group that contains sulfur and is found in amino acids like cysteine, contributing to protein structure.

Front

What is the methyl group?

Back

The methyl group (-CH3) is a nonpolar functional group that can affect gene regulation and is found in many organic compounds.

Front

Which functional group is basic?

Back

The amine group is basic due to the presence of a nitrogen atom that can accept protons.

Front

Which functional group is acidic?

Back

The carboxyl group is acidic because it can donate a proton (H+) in solution.

Front

Where is the phosphate group found in nucleic acids?

Back

The phosphate group is found at the 5' end of nucleic acids, linking nucleotides together.