<P> The concept of functional groups is central in organic chemistry , both as a means to classify structures and for predicting properties . A functional group is a molecular module , and the reactivity of that functional group is assumed , within limits , to be the same in a variety of molecules . Functional groups can have decisive influence on the chemical and physical properties of organic compounds . Molecules are classified on the basis of their functional groups . Alcohols , for example , all have the subunit C-O-H . All alcohols tend to be somewhat hydrophilic , usually form esters , and usually can be converted to the corresponding halides . Most functional groups feature heteroatoms ( atoms other than C and H ) . Organic compounds are classified according to functional groups , alcohols , carboxylic acids , amines , etc . </P>
<P> The concept of functional groups is central in organic chemistry , both as a means to classify structures and for predicting properties . A functional group is a molecular module , and the reactivity of that functional group is assumed , within limits , to be the same in a variety of molecules . Functional groups can have decisive influence on the chemical and physical properties of organic compounds . Molecules are classified on the basis of their functional groups . Alcohols , for example , all have the subunit C-O-H . All alcohols tend to be somewhat hydrophilic , usually form esters , and usually can be converted to the corresponding halides . Most functional groups feature heteroatoms ( atoms other than C and H ) . Organic compounds are classified according to functional groups , alcohols , carboxylic acids , amines , etc . </P>
what determines the properties of organic compounds ( points 3 )
what determines the properties of organic compounds ( points 3 )
functional groups
functional groups