Definition of alkyl in English:
alkyl
noun ˈalkʌɪlˈalkɪlˈalk(ə)l
Chemistry as modifier Of or denoting a hydrocarbon radical derived from an alkane by removal of a hydrogen atom.
Example sentencesExamples
- In common with other alkyl groups, both forms of the propyl group modify the behavior of a functional group.
- Subsequently, alkyl hydroperoxides may initiate radical chain reactions and cause membrane destruction.
- As the size of the alkyl group increases, i.e. as the number of carbon atoms increases, the water solubility decreases.
- This produces the second electrophile, the positively charged alkyl group.
- The ethyl group has a greater molecular weight than the smallest alkyl radical which is the methyl group.
Origin
Late 19th century: German, from Alkohol 'alcohol' + -yl.