Clarification on Functional Groups

In organic chemistry, a functional group is a specific group of atoms within a molecule that is responsible for the characteristic chemical reactions of that molecule. Here are some common functional groups covered in Class 11 NCERT syllabus:

• Hydroxyl Group (-OH): Found in alcohols. Example: Ethanol (CH₃CH₂OH).
• Carbonyl Group (C=O): Found in aldehydes and ketones. Example: Formaldehyde (HCHO) and Acetone (CH₃COCH₃).
• Carboxyl Group (-COOH): Found in carboxylic acids. Example: Acetic Acid (CH₃COOH).
• Amino Group (-NH₂): Found in amines. Example: Methylamine (CH₃NH₂).
• Halogen Group (X): Where X can be F, Cl, Br, or I, found in haloalkanes. Example: Chloroform (CHCl₃).

Each functional group imparts specific properties to the organic compound and dictates its reactivity and interactions with other molecules.