Methyl facts for kids
A methyl group is a small group of atoms that is very important in organic chemistry. Think of it as a special building block. It is made up of one carbon atom and three hydrogen atoms. Its chemical formula is CH3.
What is a Methyl Group?
A methyl group is a part of many different chemical compounds. It is often called an "ion" because it can have a slight electric charge. This charge helps it connect with other atoms or groups of atoms.
How is it Formed?
The methyl group comes from a simple gas called methane. Methane is a gas with the formula CH4. If one of the hydrogen atoms breaks away from a methane molecule, what's left is a methyl group (CH3).
What Does it Do?
Methyl groups love to join with other chemical parts. They act like a hook, connecting to other atoms or groups to build new molecules. For example, when a methyl group connects with a hydroxide group (which is oxygen and hydrogen), it forms methanol. Methanol is a type of alcohol that can be used as a fuel or to make other chemicals.
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