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Here is a list of the more
important functional groups arranged in decreasing priority order for
a nomenclature perspective.
The JSMOL interactive iamges use the standard
atom colour code: C = grey, O = red, N = blue, H = white, S = yellow, Br = maroon, Cl = green
Note that aromatic systems (arenes)
such as a benzene ring should also be thought of as a functional group, but they don't fit into the
priority order list shown below.
This priority order is important in nomenclature as the higher priority group
is the principal functional group and it is typically numbered such that it
has the lowest number (the lowest locant).
You need to learn to recognise
these functional groups not just for nomenclature but in order to recognise
their reactions later.
In each case the fundamental functional group unit is shown, it is this that
you need to be able to recognise - pay attention to the atoms involved and the
bonding patterns.
Note the "R" is used to represent generic groups based on C (such as a methyl group) or just H.
All the 3D-JSMOL structures can be manipulated using your computer mouse (e.g. zoom, rotate)
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Functional |
Formula |
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Carboxylic Acids
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Acid Anhydrides
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Esters
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Acyl Halides
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Amides
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Nitriles
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Aldehydes
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Ketones
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Alcohols
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Thiols
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Amines
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Ethers
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Sulfides
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Alkenes
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Alkynes
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Alkyl Halides
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Nitro
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Alkanes
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©Dr. Ian Hunt, Department of Chemistry |  |