Alkyl

An Alkyl is a univalent radical containing only carbon and hydrogen atoms arranged in a chain. The alkyls form a homologous series with the general formula CnH2n+1. Examples include methyl, CH3· (derived from methane) and butyl C4H9· (derived from butane). They are normally not found on their own but are found as part of larger branched chain organic molecules. On their own they are free radicals and therefore extremely reactive.

Structure

The structure of an alkyl is the same as its straight chained alkane counterpart but with one less hydrogen atom. For example, this is the structure of Methyl, the smallest alkyl:

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Alkyls are radicals since only three out of four valency electrons are used in bonding on one of the carbon atoms.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Since they are radicals, alkyls are normally found as part of larger structures. Radicals are represented in general formulae using the shorthand symbol R. This is shown in the general displayed formula of an ester below:

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

In many cases R represents an alkyl, although it may represent any radical.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~