Which of the following is a characteristic of a functional group in organic chemistry?

• A. A functional group is a type of isomer that differs in the arrangement of atoms.
• B. A functional group is a type of bond that forms between two carbon atoms.
• C. A functional group is a specific group of atoms within molecules that is responsible for the characteristic chemical reactions of those molecules.
• D. A functional group is a type of mutation that occurs naturally without external influence.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the definition of a functional group: 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.
2. Recognize that functional groups are not isomers. Isomers are compounds with the same molecular formula but different structural arrangements. Functional groups, on the other hand, are specific groups of atoms that impart specific chemical properties to the molecules they are part of.
3. Identify that functional groups are not types of bonds. While bonds are connections between atoms, functional groups are specific arrangements of atoms that participate in chemical reactions.
4. Clarify that functional groups are not mutations. Mutations refer to changes in the genetic material of an organism, which is a concept from biology, not organic chemistry.
5. Conclude that the correct characteristic of a functional group is that it is a specific group of atoms within molecules responsible for the characteristic chemical reactions of those molecules.