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Knowing the basics of organic building blocks is paramount if you want to work in material science, chemistry or other related fields. These are the essential molecules that help create more complex compounds with a range of different applications. In this blog, we will briefly overview the basics of organic building blocks and how they support chemical synthesis.
What are organic building blocks?
Essentially, organic building blocks are organic molecules with a function. They contain clusters of atoms that give the molecule its ability to react with other chemicals. These functional groups of atoms act like handles or hooks. Effectively, these allow chemists to link them together.
What functional groups are there?
There are a variety of functional groups that building blocks fall into:
Alcohols(-OH)
The major characteristic of alcohols is the presence of a hydroxyl group minus (-OH) which is attached to a carbon atom. This polarises the molecule, which allows it to form hydrogen bonds with other molecules. Alcohols can be found in a variety of compounds, such as solvents (ethanol), pharmaceuticals and even sugars. They are typically known for their versatility, as they can react easily in situations that require oxidisation, reduction and esterification.
Amines (-NH2)
A nitrogen atom is bonded to 2 hydrogen atoms and a carbon atom; amines are vital in the creation of amino acids. These are essentially the building blocks that create proteins. They are helpful where reactions such as calculation and isolation are needed, and they act as a base for many biologically active compounds and drugs.
Carbolic acids (- COOH)
A carboxyl group will be found in carboxylic acids. This is a combination of a carbon group and a hydroxyl group, creating an acidic molecule. Predominantly found in fatty acids, amino acids and a variety of pharmaceuticals, they undergo reactions such as amidation, decarboxylation and esterification.
Aldehydes (- CHO) and ketones (=O)
A carbon group is contained in both aldehydes and ketones. This consists of a carbon atom double-bonded to an oxygen atom. Aldehydes possess a carbon group at the end of a carbon chain. However, in ketones, the carbon group is within the chain. Both of these functional groups are vital in many natural products, flavourings and fragrances. Common reactions are addition and condensation.
Alkyl Halides (-X)
Compounds here have a halogen atom bonded to a carbon atom. This can have a real difference in the reactivity of a molecule. Common reactions here include nucleophilic substitution and elimination.
Alkenes and Alkynes (C=C) While alkenes contain a carbon-carbon double bond, alkynes possess a carbon-carbon triple bond. These hydrocarbons have more reactivity than alkanes. Addition reactions are typical for these functional groups, as the double or triple bond will be broken, and new atoms or groups can be added to the carbon atoms.
The importance of organic building blocks
There are various reasons why organic building blocks are vital.
Using organic building blocks, chemists are able to have precise control of the final structure of properties of a molecule. In addition, pharmaceutical companies use these functional groups to modify and combine building blocks and synthesise new drug candidates. Plus, organic building blocks can create polymer plastics and liquid crystals. Finally, building blocks are essential tools that help us explore chemical reactions and develop innovative methods for creating new compounds.
Choosing the right building blocks
It is vital for any process that the appropriate building blocks are chosen. Various factors must be considered to ensure this is the case, including reactivity, stereochemistry, purity, cost and availability.
In conclusion, understanding organic building blocks is vital for innovating in chemical compounds. Acting as the foundation of chemical synthesis, they can help drive innovation in medicine and material science and develop our understanding of the chemicals around us.
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