- #1
Chemistry Functional group in aspartame molecule
- Thread starter desmond iking
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The discussion centers on identifying the functional groups in the aspartame molecule. Participants clarify that the carbonyl group (C=O) is not present as a standalone group; instead, aspartame contains an amide (-CONH-) and an ester (-COO-). There is confusion regarding the terminology, with some arguing that carbonyls in larger functional groups retain characteristics but do not qualify as independent carbonyls. The conversation highlights the importance of precise language in chemistry, suggesting that the question should specify "ketone" rather than "carbonyl" for clarity. Overall, the key functional groups in aspartame are identified as an amide and an ester.
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- #2
Saitama
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desmond iking said:
-COO- is not carbonyl, its for ester. Carbonyl is simply -CO-.
- #3
desmond iking
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Pranav-Arora said:
yes , i noted . but can you try to answer my question please? thanks... the C0- grouo is present in the molecule
- #4
Saitama
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desmond iking said:
No, it is not present. Rather, you have -CONH- which is an amide and -COO-, which is an ester.
- #5
Borek
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It is always a part of other functional group, not a functional group alone (like in acetone).
But to be honest I don't like the question - carbonyl is so characteristic it retains some of its properties even when it is a part of the larger functional group, so I agree the way question is constructed can be confusing and misleading.
But to be honest I don't like the question - carbonyl is so characteristic it retains some of its properties even when it is a part of the larger functional group, so I agree the way question is constructed can be confusing and misleading.
- #6
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The question would have been more clear is they said ketone rather than carbonyl. I would say the C=O group in amides, esters, and carboxylic acids all count as carbonyls, but they don't count as ketones.
- #7
- #8
Borek
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What you have drawn is not an amide, it is an alpha aminoacid.
Amide needs a direct connection of carbonyl to nitrogen.
Amide needs a direct connection of carbonyl to nitrogen.
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