The exact chemical formula for the cyclobutyl group, when considered as a univalent radical or substituent, is C4H7.
This formula represents a specific arrangement of four carbon atoms and seven hydrogen atoms, forming a cyclic structure. The cyclobutyl group is derived from its parent alkane, cyclobutane (C4H8), by the removal of one hydrogen atom, which then allows it to bond to other atoms or functional groups to form larger, more complex molecules.
Understanding the Cyclobutyl Structure
The cyclobutyl group is characterized by its unique four-membered carbon ring. This cyclic arrangement distinguishes it from linear or branched alkyl groups with the same number of carbon atoms.
Key Characteristics of the Cyclobutyl Group:
- Cyclic Structure: The four carbon atoms are arranged in a closed loop, forming a strained ring due to bond angle deviation from the ideal tetrahedral angle.
- Four Carbon Atoms: It specifically contains a ring composed of four carbon atoms.
- Monovalent Radical: It possesses one bonding site, meaning one hydrogen atom has been removed from the corresponding cyclobutane molecule, allowing it to act as a substituent.
Cyclobutyl in Larger Molecules
While C4H7 is the formula for the cyclobutyl group itself, it is typically found as a component within larger, more complex organic compounds. For example, in a compound like cyclobutyl (E)-pent-2-enoate, the cyclobutyl group is an integral part of the overall molecular structure.
The table below illustrates how the cyclobutyl group contributes to the overall molecular formula of a compound containing it:
Compound Name | Overall Molecular Formula | Description of Cyclobutyl's Role |
---|---|---|
Cyclobutyl (E)-pent-2-enoate | C9H14O2 | The cyclobutyl group (C4H7) is an ester substituent within this compound. |
This example demonstrates that while the cyclobutyl group's formula is C4H7, the formula of the entire molecule it is part of will be different, encompassing all atoms within that compound.