Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

quinone

noun

/ˈkwɪn.oʊn/

Definition

Quinone refers to a class of cyclic organic compounds containing a conjugated dione structure, where two ketone groups are located in a six-membered aromatic ring.

Examples

The compound known as benzoquinone is derived from benzene.
Quinones are involved in photosynthesis processes in plants.
In laboratory settings, quinones are used as reagents in synthetic organic chemistry.

Meaning

Quinones are significant in organic chemistry due to their role as electron acceptors and their involvement in biochemical processes. They are often used in various chemical reactions and have applications in dyes, plastics, and as electron transporters in biological systems.