Definition

The process of adding a sulfonic acid group to an organic compound, which involves replacing a hydrogen atom with a sulfonic acid group, usually through a reaction with sulfuric acid.

Example

The sulfonation of benzene produces sulfonic acid derivatives that are useful in various chemical applications.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of sulfonation in chemistry?

Yeah, I think it involves adding a sulfonic acid group to a compound, right?

Exactly! It can really change how the compound behaves.

I find it fascinating how small changes can have such a big impact.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Sulfonation is formed from "sulfon-" (derived from "sulfur" which comes from Latin "sulfurium", meaning sulfur) and "-ation" (a suffix used to indicate a process or action). The word refers to the process of introducing a sulfonyl group into a compound, typically in organic chemistry.

Memory Tip

Think of 'sulfur' as the key element involved in the process, and remember that 'sulfonation' is the action of adding sulfur to a compound.

Visually Confused Words