3OHryhmien

3OHryhmien refers to chemical compounds that contain three hydroxyl groups (-OH) in their molecular structure. In chemistry, such compounds are called triols, a subset of polyols. The best-known example is glycerol, or propane-1,2,3-triol, which has three hydroxyl groups on a three-carbon chain.

Triols can be linear, with each hydroxyl on a different carbon, or occur in branched arrangements. The presence of three -OH groups gives these molecules high polarity and strong capacity to form hydrogen bonds, which generally makes them very soluble in water and contributes to relatively high boiling points and viscosity for their size. The hydroxyl sites also provide multiple reaction points for esterification, ether formation, or oxidation.

Glycerol is the most prominent triol and finds widespread use as a solvent, humectant, and sweetener in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Beyond glycerol, triols are employed in various industrial applications as intermediates for polymers, plasticizers, and specialty chemicals. In biology, glycerol is a key metabolic intermediate produced during the breakdown and utilization of fats.

Synthesis and occurrence vary by compound. Some triols are derived from natural sources, while others are synthesized for specific industrial purposes. Like other alcohols, triols can undergo oxidation, esterification, and etherification reactions, enabling a broad range of chemical transformations.

See also polyols, glycerol, and triol.