Carbonyl group

Definition

A carbonyl group is a functional group composed of a carbon atom double-bonded to an oxygen atom (C=O). It is a key feature in many organic compounds, including proteins and other biomolecules.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Carbonyl groups are present in aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids, and amides.
2. In proteins, carbonyl groups are found in the backbone structure as part of peptide bonds linking amino acids.
3. The reactivity of carbonyl groups can influence protein folding and function.
4. Carbonyl groups can participate in hydrogen bonding, affecting protein stability and interactions.
5. Enzymes often target carbonyl groups during metabolic reactions involving proteins.

Review Questions

• Where in the structure of proteins can you typically find carbonyl groups?
• How do carbonyl groups influence the stability and interactions of proteins?
• What types of organic compounds commonly contain carbonyl groups?

Related terms

Peptide Bond:

A covalent bond formed between two amino acids during protein synthesis.

Aldehyde: An organic compound containing a terminal carbonyl group bonded to at least one hydrogen atom.

Ketone: An organic compound with a carbonyl group bonded to two alkyl or aryl groups.