What is Epoxide?
{{grammar}} [[File:Epoxide generic.svg|thumb|right|250px|General structure of an epoxide]] In [[organic chemistry]], an '''epoxide''' is a [[molecule]] that has a ring with at least three atoms in total, two [[carbon]] atoms and one [[oxygen]] atom. These three atoms are [[chemical bond|bonded]], or stuck together, in a small ring. The ring of atoms is shaped like a [[triangle]], with all edges of the same length. Because of this small ring, an epoxide is very reactive. Epoxides can be made by [[oxidation]] of [[alkene]]s. There are many ways to do this. Usually, a [[peroxide]] is used. Some ways can even make only one [[enantiomer]] of the epoxide. Epoxides like to react with [[nucleophile]]s. Usually, when an epoxide reacts with a nucleophile, the first thing it does is break one of its [[chemical bond]]s between the oxygen atom and the carbon atom. This makes the triangular ring pop open. With the ring open, the nucleophile gets stuck onto one of the carbon atoms. On the other carbon, the left over oxygen attaches to a [[hydrogen]] atom, turning into an [[alcohol]]. This is very useful, because it is easy to change an alcohol into many other [[functional group]]s. Epoxides are useful because with them very complicated molecules can be made quickly.{{cn}} Epoxides are extremely useful for making many other compounds. That is because oxygen, which is in an epoxide,{{cn}} is such a great functional group. Once you have made an epoxide, you can make alcohols, ethers, and halohydrins, among other things. {{Functional group}} [[Category:Functional groups]] {{chem-stub}}