Q15. Circle and identify ALL the functional groups in the molecules below:

Background

Topic: Organic Chemistry – Functional Groups

This question tests your ability to recognize and name functional groups in organic molecules. Functional groups are specific groups of atoms within molecules that are responsible for the characteristic chemical reactions of those molecules.

Key Terms and Concepts:

• Functional Group: A specific group of atoms within a molecule that imparts certain chemical properties to that molecule.

• Common Functional Groups:

  • Alcohol:

  • Aldehyde:

  • Ketone: (within a carbon chain)

  • Carboxylic Acid:

  • Ester:

  • Ether:

  • Phenol: Aromatic ring with

Step-by-Step Guidance

1. Examine each molecule and look for characteristic groupings of atoms (such as , , , , etc.).

2. For each molecule, identify and label all the functional groups present. For example, look for hydroxyl groups (alcohols/phenols), carbonyl groups (aldehydes/ketones), carboxyl groups (carboxylic acids), and esters.

3. Remember that aromatic rings (benzene rings) with substituents like are called phenols, and a carbonyl attached to an group is an ester.

4. For each structure, circle the functional group(s) and write their names next to them.

5. Be careful to distinguish between similar groups (e.g., an ester vs. a carboxylic acid).

Try identifying and naming all the functional groups in each molecule before checking the answer!