tertbutyyl

Tert-butyl refers to a tertiary butyl group, a chemical substituent derived from isobutane. It has the formula (CH3)3C-. This group consists of a central carbon atom bonded to three methyl groups and the rest of the molecule. The "tert" prefix stands for tertiary, indicating that the carbon atom attached to the main chain is bonded to three other carbon atoms. This bulky structure gives the tert-butyl group distinct steric properties. It is a common substituent in organic chemistry and is often used to introduce steric hindrance into molecules, which can influence their reactivity and physical properties. For example, tert-butyl groups are frequently found in protecting groups used in organic synthesis, such as tert-butoxycarbonyl (Boc) groups, which temporarily shield functional groups during reactions. The tert-butyl cation is a highly stable carbocation due to hyperconjugation from the methyl groups. The tert-butyl group is also found in various pharmaceuticals and materials.