Definition

A type of chemical group or compound that contains a carbon atom double-bonded to an oxygen atom, commonly found in various organic compounds like aldehydes and ketones.

Example

The chemist explained how the carbonyl group is essential in the structure of many organic molecules.

Conversation

Did you learn about the carbonyl group in chemistry class today?

Yeah, we talked about how it’s found in aldehydes and ketones.

I find it fascinating how a simple carbonyl can change the properties of a molecule.

Totally! It's amazing how such small changes can make a big difference.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Carbonyl is formed from "carbon" (from Latin "carbo", meaning coal or carbon) and "-yl" (a suffix used in chemistry to denote a radical or group derived from a compound). The word refers to a functional group in organic chemistry that contains a carbon atom double-bonded to an oxygen atom.

Memory Tip

Think of 'carbon' as the base element and '-yl' indicating a specific group in chemistry, helping you remember that 'carbonyl' refers to a carbon-containing functional group.

Visually Confused Words