Inorganic chemistry,benzoyl (/ˈbɛnzoʊɪl/,BENZ-oh-il)[1] is thefunctional group with theformula−COC6H5 andstructure−C(=O)−C6H5.[2][3] It can be viewed asbenzaldehyde missing one hydrogen. The benzoyl group has a mass of 105 amu.
The term "benzoyl" should not be confused withbenzyl, which has the formula−CH2−C6H5. The benzoyl group is given the symbol "Bz" whereas benzyl is commonly abbreviated "Bn".
Benzoyl chloride is a favored source of benzoyl groups, being used to prepare benzoyl ketones, benzamides (benzoyl amides), and benzoate esters. The source of many naturally occurring benzoyl compounds is the thioesterbenzoyl-CoA. Irradiation ofbenzil generates benzoyl radicals, which have the formula PhCO.
Many ketones contain the benzoyl group. They have the formula C6H5CO–R, an important example beingbenzophenone.
Benzoylesters andamides are common in organic chemistry. The esters are used as aprotecting groups inorganic synthesis,[4] which can be easily removed byhydrolysis in dilutebasic solution.Benzoyl-β-D-glucoside is a natural substance that can be found inPteris ensiformis.