How do functional groups work?

Question

Sarah Angotti · Accepted Answer

It alters the property of the organic compound (assuming alkane is the main reference)

An alkane is usually unreactive (with the exception of reaction with strong acids or high T)). i.e. They cannot form hydrogen bond, ionic ion-dipole bond, ionic bond.

They also rarely release/donate proton (H+) nor receive electron.

And neither are they attracted to molecules that are electron "deficient" (an electrophile) or to molecules that possess "excess" electron pair (nucleophile).

How do functional groups alter these behaviour/properties?

Formation of hydrogen bonding can take place if the organic molecule contains hydroxyl group (OH). This helps alter properties like increased solubility inside water. Take ethanol for example. the hydrogen bonding increased.

The presence of functional group like carboxylic acid helps release proton (H+) which allows it to react with basic molecules. Through this, it can produce ester bonding through reaction with alcohol (alcohol can be acidic or basic).

Meanwhile, alkenes possess pi-bonds. These electrons attracts electrophile (electron-loving) molecules like halogen (like bromine)

Elias Aguila · Answer

undefined Functional groups are specific groups of atoms within molecules that determine the chemical properties and reactivity of those molecules. They work by influencing the overall structure and behavior of organic compounds through their characteristic arrangements of atoms and bonds. Functional groups can participate in various chemical reactions, such as oxidation, reduction, substitution, addition, and elimination, thereby imparting specific chemical properties to the molecules they are part of. Additionally, functional groups can influence the physical properties of molecules, such as solubility, boiling point, and acidity or basicity.

Emilia Alvarez · Answer

undefined Functional groups are specific groups of atoms within molecules that are responsible for the characteristic chemical reactions of those molecules. They determine the reactivity and properties of organic compounds. Functional groups typically exhibit a particular arrangement of atoms that imparts specific chemical properties to the molecules they are a part of. These groups can influence the acidity or basicity of a molecule, its reactivity, solubility, and other physical and chemical properties. Functional groups can participate in various types of chemical reactions, such as substitution, addition, elimination, and oxidation-reduction reactions, based on their specific chemical nature. Overall, functional groups play a crucial role in organic chemistry by providing a means to predict and understand the behavior of organic compounds in chemical reactions.