Definition

A type of chemical compound that is derived from xanthine and includes substances like caffeine and theobromine.

Example

Caffeine is a well-known methylxanthine that many people consume daily in coffee and tea.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of methylxanthine?

Yeah, isn't that the group of compounds that includes caffeine?

Exactly! I was reading about how it affects our energy levels.

It's fascinating how something like methylxanthine can boost our mood!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Methylxanthine → It is formed from "methyl" (from Greek "methylen", meaning a chemical group derived from methane) and "xanthine" (from Greek "xanthos", meaning yellow, referring to the yellow pigment in certain compounds). The word "methylxanthine" refers to a class of compounds that include caffeine and theobromine, characterized by their methyl groups and xanthine structure.

Memory Tip

Think of 'methyl' as a chemical group related to methane and 'xanthine' as a compound associated with yellow. This helps you remember that methylxanthine refers to a group of compounds that have both these chemical characteristics.

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