Languages:

Alkyl group

Definition:

An alkyl is a functional group of an organic chemical that contains only carbon and hydrogen atoms, which are arranged in a chain.

They have general formula CnH2n+1

Examples include methyl CH3 (derived from methane) and butyl C2H5 (derived from butane). They are not found on their own but are found attached to other hydrocarbons.

Source: GreenFacts

More:

Alkylation is a refining process in which an alkyl group replaces a hydrogen atom in an organic compound.

An alkylate is the product of an alkylation process.

The process of alkylation is for instance used in petroleum refining to produce high-octane gasoline, a process using hydrofluoric acid (HF) as a catalyst.

Source: GreenFacts

Related words:

Fluoride - Methyl group

Related publications:
  
FacebookTwitterEmail
  • ABC - DEF - GHI - JKL - MNO - PQRS - TUV - WXYZ
  • Themes covered
    Publications A-Z
    Leaflets

    Get involved!

    This summary is free and ad-free, as is all of our content. You can help us remain free and independant as well as to develop new ways to communicate science by becoming a Patron!

    PatreonBECOME A PATRON!