Ketonic: meaning, definitions and examples
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ketonic
[ kɪˈtɒnɪk ]
biochemistry
Ketonic refers to a chemical compound that contains a carbonyl group (C=O) bonded to two carbon atoms. This structure is characteristic of ketones, which are organic compounds with diverse applications in chemistry and biochemistry. They play important roles in metabolism, particularly in the breakdown of fatty acids and carbohydrates.
Synonyms
carbonyl, ketone, ketonic acid.
Examples of usage
- Ketonic bodies are produced during fasting.
- The reaction led to a ketonic compound.
- Doctors monitor ketonic levels in patients.
Etymology
The term 'ketonic' is derived from 'ketone', which comes from the German word 'Keton', coined in the 19th century. The German chemist Hermann Kolbe first identified ketones in 1855, expanding the understanding of organic compounds. The prefix 'keto-' is related to the Greek word 'kētōn', meaning 'to make', emphasizing the process of forming these compounds in chemical reactions. Ketones are primarily formed during metabolic processes, especially in the liver, where fatty acids are converted into energy. The study of ketones and ketonic compounds has evolved significantly, particularly with interest in low-carbohydrate diets and their impact on health.