22dimethylpropyl

The term 2,2-dimethylpropyl can refer to a few related chemical entities within organic chemistry. Most commonly, it is used as a nomenclature fragment to describe a branched alkyl group. This group consists of a propyl chain where the second carbon atom is substituted with two methyl groups. Therefore, it has a total of five carbon atoms.

In terms of molecular structure, the 2,2-dimethylpropyl group can be visualized as a central carbon atom bonded to three methyl groups and one methylene group. This methylene group is then attached to the rest of the molecule. This specific branching pattern gives the 2,2-dimethylpropyl group a distinct steric and electronic character.

This group is also known by its common name, neopentyl. The neopentyl group is a primary alkyl group, meaning the carbon atom directly attached to the rest of the molecule is bonded to only one other carbon atom. Its highly branched nature at the carbon atom furthest from the point of attachment influences the reactivity and physical properties of compounds containing it. For instance, the steric hindrance provided by the geminal dimethyl groups can affect reaction rates and conformational preferences. Compounds incorporating the 2,2-dimethylpropyl or neopentyl moiety are found in various organic molecules, including pharmaceuticals, polymers, and other specialized chemicals.