Definition: In chemistry, "hydroxyl" is a common term used to describe a group of atoms that have -OH (oxygen) charge. These groups are found in organic compounds and can be formed by combining different types of carbon atoms with other elements like hydrogen, nitrogen, or oxygen.
For example:
-
H2O
- Water molecule
-
CH3COOH
- Acetic acid (a compound containing a hydroxyl group)
-
NaOH
- Sodium