sulphonyl

The term "sulphonyl" refers to a functional group in organic chemistry with the general formula R-SO2-R', where R and R' are organic substituents. This group is characterized by a sulfur atom double-bonded to two oxygen atoms and single-bonded to two carbon atoms. It is often derived from sulfonic acids, which have the formula R-SO3H. When the hydroxyl group (-OH) of a sulfonic acid is replaced by an organic group, a sulphonyl derivative is formed. The sulphonyl group is a key component of many important classes of organic compounds, including sulphonamides and sulphonate esters. Sulphonyl chlorides, with the formula R-SO2Cl, are reactive intermediates used in the synthesis of these compounds. The sulphur atom in the sulphonyl group is in a high oxidation state, +6, making the group electron-withdrawing. This electronic property influences the reactivity and properties of molecules containing the sulphonyl moiety. Examples of compounds containing the sulphonyl group include saccharin, a sweetener, and various pharmaceuticals, such as sulfa drugs.