Chapter 4 : Alcohols and Alkyl Halides
Functional Groups
A
functional group
is an atom or a group of atoms within a molecule (
e.g
. -Cl or -CO
2
H)
Functional groups
typically dictate or define reactivity
Similar
functional groups
in different molecules typically react in similar ways when subjected to a particular set of reaction conditions.
Study Tips:
As organic chemistry unfolds, take notice that the reactions occur
directly
at or
immediately adjacent
to the functional groups.
Therefore, recognising the functional groups is
the key
to recognising the type of reaction.
What is a reaction ?
A reaction is the process by which one compound is transformed into a new compound,
e.g.
©
Dr. Ian Hunt
, Department of Chemistry
