alifáticos

Alifáticos refers to organic compounds characterized by carbon atoms arranged in open chains or rings, as opposed to aromatic compounds which feature a specific cyclic structure. The term is derived from the Greek word "aleiphar," meaning fat or oil, reflecting the origin of many early identified aliphatic compounds.

Aliphatic compounds can be saturated, meaning they contain only single bonds between carbon atoms, such as alkanes. They can also be unsaturated, containing one or more double or triple bonds between carbon atoms, like alkenes and alkynes. The hydrocarbon backbone of aliphatic compounds can be linear, branched, or cyclic. Cyclic aliphatic compounds, also known as alicyclic compounds, possess a ring structure but do not exhibit aromaticity.

These compounds form the basis of a vast array of organic substances. Simple aliphatic hydrocarbons like methane and ethane are fundamental building blocks. More complex aliphatic molecules are found in natural fats, waxes, and petroleum. They are also crucial components in many synthetic materials, including plastics and solvents. The reactivity and properties of aliphatic compounds are largely determined by the type of bonds present and the size and shape of the carbon skeleton.