What Is a Carbonyl Group? Examples in Organic Chemistry A carbonyl group consists of a carbon atom double-bonded to an oxygen atom (C=O) The carbon is sp² hybridized, giving the group a planar geometry The carbon atom in the carbonyl group is electrophilic (electron-deficient), while the oxygen is nucleophilic (electron-rich) due to its higher electronegativity
Understanding Carbonyl Group Functions in Organic Chemistry The carbonyl group, defined by a carbon atom double-bonded to an oxygen atom, is a key feature in organic chemistry This double bond involves a complex interplay of atomic orbitals, giving rise to the carbonyl’s distinctive properties