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Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a characteristic functional group of alcohols?
A
Hydroxyl group (-OH)
B
Carbonyl group (C=O)
C
Amino group (-NH2)
D
Carboxyl group (-COOH)
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the functional groups listed in the options: Hydroxyl group (-OH), Carbonyl group (C=O), Amino group (-NH2), and Carboxyl group (-COOH).
Recall the definition of an alcohol in organic chemistry: Alcohols are organic compounds that contain one or more hydroxyl groups (-OH) attached to a carbon atom.
Understand that the hydroxyl group (-OH) is the defining functional group of alcohols, distinguishing them from other types of organic compounds.
Review the other functional groups: Carbonyl group (C=O) is characteristic of aldehydes and ketones, Amino group (-NH2) is characteristic of amines, and Carboxyl group (-COOH) is characteristic of carboxylic acids.
Conclude that the characteristic functional group of alcohols is the hydroxyl group (-OH), as it is the group that defines the class of alcohols in organic chemistry.