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carbonylation

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: //kɑːrˈbɒnɪleɪʃən//

KK: /kɑrˈbɒnɪleɪʃən/

noun
Definition

A chemical reaction that adds a carbonyl group to a compound, often involving carbon monoxide.


Example

The carbonylation process is essential in producing various organic compounds.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you heard about the process called carbonylation?
Sloth B
Yeah, it's when you introduce a carbonyl group into a compound, right?
Sloth A
Exactly! I'm really interested in how it can be used in different chemical reactions.
Sloth B
It’s fascinating how it can change the properties of compounds so significantly.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
carbonylation
synthesis
reaction
Antonyms
decomposition
destruction
breakdown
Root Explanation

Carbonylation is formed from "carbon" (from Latin "carbo", meaning coal or carbon) and "-ylation" (a suffix used in chemistry to denote the introduction of a functional group). The term refers to the process of introducing a carbonyl group into a compound.

Memory Tip

Think of 'carbon' as the element being introduced and '-ylation' as the process of adding a functional group. This helps you remember that carbonylation is about adding a carbonyl group.

Visually Confused Words
decarboxylation
recarbonation
carnation
decarboxylization
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