Mono-

Definition

The prefix 'mono-' is used in chemistry to indicate the presence of a single unit or element in a compound. It denotes a monosubstituted or monofunctional group, where only one substituent or functional group is present in the molecule.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The prefix 'mono-' is used to indicate the presence of a single unit or element in a chemical compound.
2. Monosubstituted compounds have only one substituent group replacing a hydrogen atom in the original molecule.
3. Monofunctional compounds possess a single functional group, such as alcohols, aldehydes, and carboxylic acids.
4. Monatomic substances are composed of a single atom, like the noble gases (helium, neon, argon).
5. The 'mono-' prefix is commonly used in the context of chemical nomenclature to describe the composition and structure of compounds.

Review Questions

• Explain how the prefix 'mono-' is used in the context of chemical nomenclature.
  • In chemical nomenclature, the prefix 'mono-' is used to indicate the presence of a single unit or element in a compound. It denotes a monosubstituted or monofunctional molecule, where only one substituent or functional group is present. For example, a monosubstituted benzene ring would have a single substituent group, such as in chlorobenzene (C6H5Cl), where a single chlorine atom replaces a hydrogen atom. Similarly, a monofunctional compound like methanol (CH3OH) has a single hydroxyl (OH) functional group.
• Describe the relationship between the 'mono-' prefix and the concept of atomicity in chemistry.
  • The 'mono-' prefix is also used to describe the atomicity of a substance, referring to the number of atoms present in a molecule or atom. Monatomic substances are composed of a single atom, such as the noble gases (helium, neon, argon). In this context, the 'mono-' prefix indicates the presence of a single atom in the chemical species. This is in contrast to diatomic or polyatomic molecules, which contain two or more atoms, respectively. Understanding the relationship between the 'mono-' prefix and atomicity is crucial for accurately describing the composition and structure of chemical compounds.
• Evaluate the importance of the 'mono-' prefix in the context of functional group identification and reactivity in organic chemistry.
  • The 'mono-' prefix is essential in organic chemistry for identifying the presence and reactivity of functional groups. Monofunctional compounds, such as alcohols, aldehydes, and carboxylic acids, possess a single functional group that determines their chemical properties and reactivity. This information is crucial for predicting and understanding the behavior of organic molecules in various reactions and synthesis pathways. Furthermore, the 'mono-' prefix can also indicate the degree of substitution in a compound, which is vital for determining the potential for further reactions and the stability of the molecule. Overall, the 'mono-' prefix is a fundamental concept in chemical nomenclature that provides valuable insights into the structure, composition, and reactivity of chemical compounds.

Related terms

Monatomic:

A molecule or atom consisting of a single atom, such as the noble gases (e.g., helium, neon, argon).

Monofunctional: A compound or molecule that has a single functional group, such as alcohols, aldehydes, and carboxylic acids.

Monosubstituted: A compound where only one substituent has replaced a hydrogen atom in the original molecule.