Carbon+Functional+Groups

A //**functional group**// is a pattern of elements in an organic molecule that carry with them unique properties that will have an effect on the molecule's physical and chemical properties.


 * Carbon-Containing Functional Groups**

We have studied two carbon functional groups - double and triple bonds (alkenes and alkynes):


 * alkenes:




 * One specific type of alkene is a vinyl group. It is simply a two-carbon branch containing a double bond:
 * alkynes:


 * Another common carbon functional group, the aryl group, may also be referred to as a phenyl or benzyl group. This is a six-carbon ring with alternating double bonds, and could have any variety of attachments:




 * One interesting pattern of carbon rings forms a steroid functional group. Below is a specific example of a steroid, called testosterone:

Note the three six-carbon rings (one is offset) and the five-carbon ring. That is what defines a steroid.