Answer :
The special combinations of atoms that provide organic molecules with their specific characteristics are called functional groups.
Functional groups are groups of atoms that occur within molecules and confer specific chemical properties to those molecules. We find them along the "carbon backbone" of macromolecules.
Chains and/or rings of carbon atoms with the occasional substitution of an element such as nitrogen or oxygen form this carbon backbone. For example, the hydroxyl group (-OH) imparts certain properties to alcohols and affects their reactivity.
Some common functional groups include:
- Hydroxyl group (-OH)
- Carboxyl group (-COOH)
- Amino group (-NH2)
- Methyl group (-CH3)
- Phosphate group (-PO4)
