Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
alkyl
noun
/ˈæl.kɪl/
Definition
A hydrocarbon radical formed from an alkane by the removal of one hydrogen atom.
Examples
- In organic chemistry, an alkyl group can be represented as R, where R is a placeholder for a hydrocarbon chain.
- The structure of the compound changes when an alkyl group is attached.
Meaning
Alkyl groups are often used in organic chemistry to describe groups of atoms that come from alkanes. They are important in the formation of various organic compounds.
Synonyms
- hydrocarbon group
- alkane residue
