Chapter U2.6, Problem 1TAI

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The effect of structure of a molecule on smell is to be explained.

Concept introduction:

Compounds that have similar smells appear to have similar features. These features are called functional groups. There are many types of functional groups. Compounds are named after the functional groups present in them.

Answer to Problem 1TAI

The structure of a molecule helps in predicting its smell. The compound has smell depending on the type of functional group present in it.

For example:

If the functional group is ester, the compound will smell sweet while if the functional group is amine the compound will smell fishy.

Explanation of Solution

Compounds that have the same functional group tend to have similar properties. All the molecules that have ester as the functional group are sweet smelling compounds. For example, ethyl butyrate, ethyl acetate etc.

Putrid smelling compounds have carboxyl group present in them. For example, butyric acid and hexanoic acid.

Fishy smelling compounds have amine group and ketone containing compounds have minty smell.

Conclusion

Generally molecules with similar functional groups have similar smells.