ACETYL GROUP Meaning and
Definition
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The acetyl group is a functional group that consists of two carbon atoms, three hydrogen atoms, and one oxygen atom. It is derived from acetic acid and is often represented as -COCH3. The carbon atom at the center of the group is connected to the carbonyl oxygen and the two remaining hydrogen atoms. The acetyl group can be found in various organic compounds and plays a significant role in many biochemical reactions.
In biological systems, the acetyl group is important for the process of acetylation, where it is transferred from acetyl-CoA to other molecules. This acetylation process is crucial for many metabolic pathways, such as the citric acid cycle, where acetyl-CoA is a key substrate. Acetyl groups also serve as an energy source, as they can be oxidized through cellular respiration to generate ATP (adenosine triphosphate).
In organic chemistry, the acetyl group is commonly used as a protecting group for functional groups, such as hydroxyl (-OH) and amino (-NH2) groups. This protection prevents unwanted reactions or interactions during specific synthetic manipulations. Additionally, the acetyl group is often utilized as a precursor for the synthesis of various pharmaceutical compounds, flavors, fragrances, and natural products.
Overall, the acetyl group is an essential chemical entity found in numerous biological and synthetic compounds, participating in various biological processes and serving as a versatile building block in organic chemistry.
Common Misspellings for ACETYL GROUP
- zcetyl group
- scetyl group
- wcetyl group
- qcetyl group
- axetyl group
- avetyl group
- afetyl group
- adetyl group
- acwtyl group
- acstyl group
- acdtyl group
- acrtyl group
- ac4tyl group
- ac3tyl group
- aceryl group
- acefyl group
- acegyl group
- aceyyl group
- ace6yl group
Etymology of ACETYL GROUP
The word "acetyl" is derived from the chemical compound "acetic acid" (CH3COOH), which is a weak acid that gives vinegar its characteristic taste and smell. The term "acetyl" is used to describe the acetic acid molecule when one hydrogen atom is replaced with a carbon atom bonded to three hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom (CH3CO-). This acetyl group is then used as a functional group in organic chemistry to form various compounds. The name is derived from the Latin word "acetum", which means vinegar.
Similar spelling words for ACETYL GROUP
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