An organic compound with general formula RCOR' is an

Assessment: JAMB UTME - Chemistry - 2024 Subject: Chemistry

Question 1 Report

An organic compound with general formula RCOR' is an
Answer Details

The general formula RCOR' represents a class of organic compounds known as ketones. In this formula, R and R' are alkyl groups, which are chains of carbon and hydrogen atoms. The CO in the middle is a carbonyl group, which consists of a carbon atom double-bonded to an oxygen atom. Therefore, with the presence of two alkyl groups on either side of the carbonyl group, the compound is categorized as a ketone, scientifically referred to as an alkanone.


Here is a simple breakdown of the terms:

  • Alkanone: A term used to describe ketones, which have the general formula RCOR'.
  • Alkanal: Represents aldehydes, which contain the functional group RCHO with at least one hydrogen attached to the carbon atom of the carbonyl group.
  • Alkanoate: Typically refers to esters, which have the general form RCOOR'.
  • Alkanoic acid: Refers to carboxylic acids, which are denoted by the functional group RCOOH.

Hence, by looking at the general formula RCOR', the organic compound in question is undoubtedly an alkanone.

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