hexol

Hexol is a term that can refer to several different chemical compounds, primarily those containing six carbon atoms. In organic chemistry, it often denotes a six-carbon chain. One common usage of hexol is as a colloquial or older term for hexose, which is a monosaccharide containing six carbon atoms. Examples of hexoses include glucose, fructose, and galactose. These are fundamental building blocks for many carbohydrates and play crucial roles in biological energy metabolism.

Another potential interpretation of hexol relates to alditols, specifically those with six carbon atoms. These are sugar alcohols produced by the reduction of the aldehyde or ketone group of a hexose. For instance, sorbitol is a hexitol derived from glucose. Hexitols are often used as sweeteners and humectants in various food and pharmaceutical products due to their lower caloric value and non-cariogenic properties.

The specific context in which "hexol" is used is important for determining the exact chemical entity being referenced. Without further clarification, it most commonly points to either a hexose sugar or a hexitol sugar alcohol.