Alkyl is a term that is often used in chemistry and organic chemistry. It refers to a type of molecule that is made up of carbon and hydrogen atoms, with one or more of the hydrogen atoms replaced by an alkyl group. This group is a type of functional group that is characterized by a chain of carbon atoms that are bonded together.
Definitions
In chemistry, alkyl refers to a type of hydrocarbon molecule that is made up of a chain of carbon atoms that are bonded together. The chain may be straight or branched, and it may contain one or more double or triple bonds.
In organic chemistry, alkyl groups are functional groups that are derived from alkane molecules. They are characterized by a chain of carbon atoms that are bonded together, with one or more of the hydrogen atoms replaced by a functional group.
Origin
The term alkyl comes from the word “alkane,” which is a type of hydrocarbon molecule that is made up of a chain of carbon atoms that are bonded together. The term was first used in the early 20th century by chemists who were studying the properties of hydrocarbons.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, alkyl is defined as “a univalent organic radical CnH2n+1 derived from an alkane by removal of a hydrogen atom from the terminal carbon atom.”
The Oxford English Dictionary defines alkyl as “a group of atoms derived from an alkane by the removal of one hydrogen atom.”
Associations
Alkyl groups are commonly found in organic compounds, including gasoline, plastics, and pharmaceuticals. They are also used in the production of detergents, lubricants, and solvents.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for alkyl include alkane, hydrocarbon, and organic radical.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms for alkyl, as it is a specific term in chemistry and organic chemistry.
The same root words
The root word for alkyl is “alkane,” which refers to a type of hydrocarbon molecule that is made up of a chain of carbon atoms that are bonded together.
Example Sentences
- The alkyl group in this compound is responsible for its solubility in water.
- The production of this plastic involves the use of alkyl groups.
- Alkyl radicals are commonly used in organic synthesis.