What are functional groups in organic chemistry?

Functional groups in organic chemistry are specific groups of atoms within molecules that have distinctive chemical properties and reactions. They serve as the sites where chemical reactions occur and influence the overall characteristics of the compound, such as polarity, acidity, and reactivity. For instance, hydroxyl groups (-OH) make a molecule polar and increase its solubility in water, while carboxyl groups (-COOH) confer acidic properties.

The correct answer highlights that these groups dictate how organic compounds behave and interact with one another. This understanding is fundamental to predicting reactivity and properties of different molecules in organic chemistry. Recognizing functional groups allows chemists to categorize compounds, understand reaction mechanisms, and design molecules with desired traits for various applications.