Benzoyl group



In organic chemistry, benzoyl is the functional group with the formula \sCOC6H5 and structure \sC(\dO)\sC6H5. It can be viewed as benzaldehyde missing one hydrogen. The benzoyl group has a mass of 105 amu.

The term "benzoyl" should not be confused with benzyl, which has the formula \sCH2\sC6H5. The benzoyl group is given the symbol "Bz" whereas benzyl is commonly abbreviated "Bn".

Benzoyl compounds
Many ketones contain the benzoyl group. They have the formula C6H5CO–R, an important example being benzophenone.

Benzoyl esters and amides are common in organic chemistry. The esters are used as a protecting groups in organic synthesis, which can be easily removed by hydrolysis in dilute basic solution. Benzoyl-β- D -glucoside is a natural substance that can be found in Pteris ensiformis.