Functional Groups (AP Biology / Chemistry)

Hydroxyl Group Structure

-OH

Hydroxyl Group Properties

polar (electronegative oxygen), form hydrogen bonds w/ water, help dissolve compounds like sugars

Hydroxyl Group Compound Name

Alcohol

Carbonyl Group Structure

>C = O

Carbonyl Group Properties

sugars w/ ketone groups called ketoses ; sugars w/ aldehydes called aldoses

Carbonyl Group Compound Name

Ketone (carbonyl group within carbon skeleton) or Aldehyde (carbonyl group at end of carbon skeleton)

Carboxyl Group Structure

-COOH

Carboxyl Group Properties

Acts as acid (donate H+) b/c covalent bond between oxygen and hydrogen so polar

Carboxyl Group Compound Name

Carboxylic acid / organic acid

Amino Group Structure

-NH2

Amino Group Properties

base; picks up H+ from surrounding solution (water, in living organisms)

Amino Group Compound Name

Amine

Sulfhydryl Group Structure

-SH (or HS-)

Sulfhydryl Group Properties

Two -SH groups react, forming “cross link” to stabilize protein structure ; hair cross-links maintain straightness or curliness of hair

Sulfhydryl Group Compound Name

Thiol

Phosphate Group Structure

—OPO3²-

Phosphate Group Properties

Contributes negative charge (1- when positioned inside chain of phosphates, 2- when at end). When attached, confers on molecule ability to react w/ water, releasing energy

Phosphate Group Compound Name

Organic Phosphate

Methyl Group Structure

—CH3

Methyl Group Properties

Affects expression of genes when bonded to DNA or to proteins that bind to DNA ; affects shape and function of male and female sex hormones

Methyl group compound name

Methylated compound