ketone group: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Technical/Scientific
Quick answer
What does “ketone group” mean?
A specific chemical functional group (C=O) where a carbon atom is double-bonded to an oxygen atom and also bonded to two other carbon atoms.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A specific chemical functional group (C=O) where a carbon atom is double-bonded to an oxygen atom and also bonded to two other carbon atoms.
In organic chemistry, the defining structural feature of ketone molecules; a carbonyl group flanked by two alkyl or aryl groups, making it distinct from aldehydes and carboxylic acids.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No lexical or spelling differences. Pronunciation differences are minimal.
Connotations
Identical technical connotations in both dialects.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency and confined to scientific contexts in both regions.
Grammar
How to Use “ketone group” in a Sentence
[Molecule] contains a ketone group.The ketone group in [Compound] is [property/action].[Reaction] targets the ketone group.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “ketone group” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The ketone-group proton resonated downfield.
- We studied the ketone-group reactivity.
American English
- The ketone-group carbon is electrophilic.
- Ketone-group chemistry was the focus.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Extremely rare; only in specific pharmaceutical or chemical industry R&D.
Academic
Common in organic chemistry textbooks, research papers, and lectures.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Standard, precise term in chemistry, biochemistry, and related lab contexts.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “ketone group”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “ketone group”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “ketone group”
- Using 'ketone' alone when referring to the specific functional group (e.g., 'The ketone is reactive' vs. 'The ketone group is reactive').
- Confusing it with an aldehyde group (C=O at end of chain).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. 'Ketone' refers to the whole molecule containing the group (e.g., acetone). 'Ketone group' specifies the C=O functional unit within that molecule.
Both have a C=O. In an aldehyde, the carbonyl carbon is bonded to at least one hydrogen. In a ketone group, it is bonded to two carbon atoms.
Primarily in organic chemistry, biochemistry, medicinal chemistry, polymer science, and any field involving molecular structure analysis.
It is a highly reactive site in organic synthesis and a common feature in biologically active molecules, influencing properties like solubility and reactivity.
A specific chemical functional group (C=O) where a carbon atom is double-bonded to an oxygen atom and also bonded to two other carbon atoms.
Ketone group is usually technical/scientific in register.
Ketone group: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkiːtəʊn ɡruːp/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkiːtoʊn ɡruːp/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think 'key tone': The C=O is the KEY structural feature that sets the TONE for ketone chemistry.
Conceptual Metaphor
A FUNCTIONAL UNIT (The group is a specialized 'tool' or 'module' installed in a molecular 'machine' that gives it specific reactive properties).
Practice
Quiz
What is the defining structure of a ketone group?