Benzüülrühm

Benzüülrühm is the term used in Estonian chemistry to refer to the benzyl group. The benzyl group has the chemical formula C6H5CH2-. It is an alkyl group derived from toluene by the removal of one hydrogen atom from the methyl group. The structure consists of a phenyl group (C6H5-) attached to a methylene group (-CH2-).

The benzyl group is frequently encountered in organic chemistry. It is a common protecting group for alcohols and carboxylic acids due to its stability under various reaction conditions and its ease of removal, typically through hydrogenation. Benzyl ethers and benzyl esters are formed by reacting an alcohol or carboxylic acid with a benzyl halide, such as benzyl chloride or benzyl bromide. The benzyl group can also be part of a larger molecule, influencing its reactivity and physical properties. For instance, benzyl alcohol is a simple compound containing the benzyl group attached to a hydroxyl group. The reactivity of the methylene hydrogens in the benzyl group is also notable, as they can undergo various reactions like halogenation. Its aromatic nature confers certain stability, while the benzylic position offers a site for chemical transformations.