terpeeneissä

Terpeeneissä, often referred to as terpenes, are a large and diverse class of organic compounds produced by a variety of plants, especially conifers, and also by some insects. They are hydrocarbons, meaning they are composed solely of hydrogen and carbon atoms. Terpenes are the primary constituents of resins and essential oils in many plants, contributing to their characteristic aromas and flavors. For example, the scent of pine trees is largely due to terpenes like pinene.

These compounds are formed through a biosynthesis pathway involving isoprene units, which are five-carbon molecules. Based on the number of isoprene units they contain, terpenes are classified into different groups, such as monoterpenes (two isoprene units), sesquiterpenes (three isoprene units), diterpenes (four isoprene units), and so on. Beyond their aromatic properties, terpenes play various ecological roles for plants, including attracting pollinators, deterring herbivores, and protecting against pathogens. In industry, terpenes are utilized in fragrances, flavorings, and as precursors for other chemicals.