functionalised

The term "functionalised" refers to the process of modifying a substance or molecule by adding a specific functional group. A functional group is a particular arrangement of atoms within a molecule that dictates its chemical properties and reactivity. By attaching a functional group, the inherent characteristics of the original material can be altered, leading to new or enhanced functionalities. This modification is a fundamental concept in chemistry and is widely employed in various scientific and industrial applications.

The purpose of functionalisation is to tailor the properties of a substance for a specific purpose. For instance, in polymer science, functionalising a polymer can introduce sites for cross-linking, improving its strength and thermal stability. In materials science, functionalising surfaces can create specific binding sites for biomolecules, enabling applications in biosensors or drug delivery systems. In organic chemistry, functionalisation reactions are crucial for building complex molecules from simpler precursors, often serving as key steps in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. The choice of functional group to be introduced depends entirely on the desired outcome, whether it be altered solubility, increased reactivity, enhanced conductivity, or specific biological interactions. The process itself typically involves chemical reactions designed to selectively attach the desired functional group without disrupting the core structure of the base material.