Which functional group is present in this molecule?





A.sulfhydryl
B.carboxyl
C.methyl
D.phosphate

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the functional groups present in the molecule by examining the structure.
2. Look for common functional groups such as hydroxyl (-OH), carboxyl (-COOH), amino (-NH2), sulfhydryl (-SH), methyl (-CH3), and phosphate (-PO4).
3. Notice the presence of a carbon double-bonded to an oxygen and single-bonded to a hydroxyl group (-COOH), which is characteristic of a carboxyl group.
4. Confirm that the molecule contains a carboxyl group by comparing it to the structural formula of a carboxyl group.
5. Conclude that the functional group present in the molecule is the carboxyl group.

Key Concepts

Functional Groups

Functional groups are specific groups of atoms within molecules that are responsible for the characteristic chemical reactions of those molecules. They determine the properties and reactivity of organic compounds. Common functional groups include hydroxyl, carboxyl, amino, and phosphate groups, each imparting unique properties to the molecules they are part of.

Carboxyl Group

The carboxyl group (-COOH) is a functional group consisting of a carbon atom double-bonded to an oxygen atom and also bonded to a hydroxyl group (-OH). It is polar and can donate a proton (H+), making it acidic. Carboxyl groups are found in amino acids and fatty acids, playing a crucial role in biological processes.

Amino Group

The amino group (-NH2) is a functional group that consists of a nitrogen atom bonded to two hydrogen atoms. It is basic and can accept a proton, which makes it important in the formation of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins. The presence of an amino group in a molecule often indicates its role in biological systems, particularly in protein synthesis.