1. A hydrocarbon group derived from an alkane by removal of one hydrogen atom, having the general formula CnH2n+1.
Usage: chemistry; technical

1. Of, relating to, or containing an alkyl group.
Usage: chemistry; technical

Examples

• Methyl and ethyl are common alkyl groups in organic chemistry.
• The alkyl chain in this molecule contains five carbon atoms.
• Alkyl halides are compounds formed when a halogen replaces a hydrogen in an alkyl group.
• The reaction substitutes an alkyl group onto the benzene ring.
• Alkyl groups are nonpolar and hydrophobic in nature.