What is the difference between -OH and OH-?
Biochemistry
9th Edition
ISBN:9781319114671
Author:Lubert Stryer, Jeremy M. Berg, John L. Tymoczko, Gregory J. Gatto Jr.
Publisher:Lubert Stryer, Jeremy M. Berg, John L. Tymoczko, Gregory J. Gatto Jr.
Chapter1: Biochemistry: An Evolving Science
Section: Chapter Questions
Problem 1P
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Transcribed Image Text:**Question: What is the difference between —OH and OH?**
**Explanation:**
When considering the functional groups and chemical entities in organic chemistry and biochemistry:
1. **—OH Group:**
- This is known as the hydroxyl group.
- It is a functional group consisting of an oxygen atom bonded to a hydrogen atom (-OH).
- The hydroxyl group is commonly found in alcohols and phenols, and it is characteristic of many organic compounds.
- In the context of organic molecules, the hydroxyl group is usually bonded to a carbon atom.
2. **OH Molecule:**
- This can refer to the hydroxide ion (OH⁻) in inorganic chemistry.
- The hydroxide ion is negatively charged and is formed when an oxygen atom is bonded to a hydrogen atom, coupled with an additional electron (giving it a negative charge).
- Hydroxide ions are common in bases and play a crucial role in acid-base chemistry.
**Summary:**
The primary difference is that the **—OH group** refers to a functional group bonded to a carbon atom within an organic molecule (neutral charge), while the **OH** (often denoted as **OH⁻**) usually refers to a hydroxide ion that is commonly found in inorganic bases (negatively charged).
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