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hydroxyl group

 

Definitions from WordNet

Noun hydroxyl group has 1 sense
  1. hydroxyl, hydroxyl group, hydroxyl radical - the monovalent group -OH in such compounds as bases and some acids and alcohols
    --1 is a kind of group, radical, chemical group

Definitions from the Web

Hydroxyl Group

Definition

The hydroxyl group is a chemical functional group consisting of an oxygen atom bonded to a hydrogen atom. It is represented by the formula -OH and is commonly found in alcohols, phenols, and carboxylic acids.

Usage

Chemistry

In organic chemistry, the hydroxyl group plays a crucial role in determining the properties and reactivity of various compounds. It is often involved in hydrogen bonding and can participate in various chemical reactions.

Example: The presence of a hydroxyl group in ethanol makes it soluble in water due to hydrogen bonding.

Biochemistry

Biological systems often utilize the presence of hydroxyl groups to carry out essential functions. Hydroxyl groups in biomolecules like proteins and nucleic acids influence their structure and function.

Example: The hydroxyl groups in DNA are responsible for forming hydrogen bonds with complementary bases.

Pharmaceuticals

Hydroxyl groups in pharmaceutical compounds can affect their efficacy, metabolism, and stability. The presence or absence of hydroxyl groups may determine the drug's interaction with specific receptors.

Example: Aspirin contains a hydroxyl group that contributes to its ability to reduce pain and inflammation in the body.

Related Products

hydroxy hydroxy acid hydroxyacetic acid hydroxybenzene hydroxybenzoic acid hydroxybutyric acid hydroxychloroquine hydroxyl hydroxyl group hydroxyl ion hydroxyl radical hydroxymethyl hydroxyproline hydroxytetracycline hydroxyzine hydroxyzine hydrochloride hydrozephalus

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