- #1
shihab-kol
- 119
- 8
Hey guys, should the -OH group in glycolic acid be considered a functional group or a substituent due to the presence of the carboxylic acid group?
Glycolic acid functional group(s)
- Thread starter shihab-kol
- Start date
Click For Summary
Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the classification of the -OH group in glycolic acid, specifically whether it should be considered a functional group or a substituent in the context of the carboxylic acid group present in the molecule. The scope includes conceptual clarification and technical explanation regarding chemical nomenclature and functionality.
Discussion Character
- Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- One participant questions whether the -OH group in glycolic acid should be classified as a functional group or a substituent, given the presence of the carboxylic acid group.
- Another participant seeks clarification on the difference between a functional group and a substituent, and how the presence of a carboxyl group might influence this classification.
- A third participant states that while the -OH group is typically considered a "substituent" under most naming conventions, it is also a functional group, asserting that glycolic acid is difunctional.
- Links to external resources are provided for further exploration of the topic.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing views on the classification of the -OH group, indicating that there is no consensus on whether it should be considered a functional group or a substituent.
Contextual Notes
The discussion does not resolve the definitions or implications of functional groups versus substituents, and the classification may depend on specific naming conventions or chemical contexts.
Similar threads
- · Replies 5 ·
Chemistry
Ester to acid chloride transformation
- · Replies 4 ·
- · Replies 18 ·
- · Replies 3 ·
- · Replies 3 ·
- · Replies 4 ·
- · Replies 2 ·
- · Replies 2 ·