ENGLISH
REFERENCE

hydroxyl

n. countable
C1 Advanced UK //hˈaɪdɹəksˌɪl// hy·drox·yl Chemistry
Definition

n. a group of one oxygen and one hydrogen atom that is part of a larger chemical molecule. It is often written as -OH and is found in many common substances like water and alcohol.

n. a functional group consisting of an oxygen atom and a hydrogen atom, typically represented as -OH. It is a fundamental component of alcohols, carboxylic acids, and many organic compounds.


SIMPLE

The hydroxyl group makes the molecule more water-soluble.

CONTEXTUAL

In the presence of a catalyst, the hydroxyl group can react with other molecules to form new chemical bonds.

COMPLEX

The presence of a hydroxyl group significantly increases the polarity of an organic molecule, allowing it to form hydrogen bonds with water and other polar solvents.

Origin

From a blend of hydrogen + oxygen + -yl.

Word family

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