What is the chemical compound name of the Hydroxyl group?

The hydroxyl group consists of an oxygen atom bonded to a hydrogen atom (–OH). Compounds that contain one or more hydroxyl groups are classified as alcohols. Alcohols can be simple, with just one hydroxyl group attached to a carbon chain, or complex, with multiple hydroxyl groups. This functional group is pivotal in organic chemistry and contributes to the properties of many substances, affecting their reactivity, solubility, and boiling points.

In contrast, the other terms mentioned refer to different functional groups. Aldehydes contain a carbonyl group (–C(=O)–) at the end of a carbon chain, esters are formed from the reaction of an alcohol and a carboxylic acid, and ketones have a carbonyl group located within the carbon chain. Each of these compounds has distinct properties and reactivity that differ significantly from those of alcohols. Hence, recognizing that the presence of a hydroxyl group directly correlates with the classification of alcohols provides clarity in identifying these compounds.