Author
Home > Science > What is the Difference Between Acyl and Alkyl?

Guilherme Mazui

•2 minutes to read

What is the Difference Between Acyl and Alkyl?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

The main difference between acyl and alkyl groups lies in the presence of an oxygen atom and a double bond. Here are the key differences between the two:

  • Acyl Groups:
  • Contain an oxygen atom.
  • Have a double bond between the carbon atom and the oxygen atom.
  • Can be derived from oxoacids by removing a hydroxyl group.
  • More reactive due to the presence of a carbonyl group.
  • Examples: Acyl chloride.
  • Alkyl Groups:
  • Do not contain an oxygen atom.
  • Do not necessarily have a double bond.
  • Formed by removing a hydrogen atom from alkanes.
  • Less reactive compared to acyl groups.
  • Examples: Methyl, ethyl, propyl, etc..

In summary, acyl groups are characterized by the presence of an oxygen atom and a double bond, while alkyl groups do not have these features. Acyl groups are generally derived from oxoacids, whereas alkyl groups are formed by removing hydrogen atoms from alkanes.

On this page
  • What is the Difference Between Acyl and Alkyl?
  • Comparative Table: Acyl vs Alkyl

    • Comparative Table: Acyl vs Alkyl

    The main difference between acyl and alkyl groups lies in the presence of a carbonyl group at the end of the carbon chain in an acyl group. Here is a comparison table highlighting the differences between acyl and alkyl groups:

    Property Acyl Alkyl
    Definition Acyl groups are functional groups composed of a carbon atom attached to a double-bonded oxygen atom and an alkyl group. Alkyl groups are functional groups consisting of only carbon and hydrogen atoms.
    Origin Acyl groups are derived from oxoacids. Alkyl groups are derived from alkanes.
    Bonds Acyl groups have a double bond between the carbon atom and the oxygen atom. Alkyl groups have no such double bond.
    Hybridization The carbon atom in the acyl group is sp² hybridized. The carbon atom in the alkyl group is sp³ hybridized.

    Acyl groups can be easily recognized by the presence of a carbon atom with a double bond, while no double bond is present in the carbon atom of an alkyl group.

    Read more:

    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.