What does the suffix "-one" indicate in a compound?

The suffix "-one" signifies the presence of a carbonyl group in a ketone. Ketones are organic compounds that contain a carbonyl functional group (C=O) where the carbon atom of the carbonyl is bonded to two other carbon atoms. This particular structural characteristic differentiates ketones from other carbonyl-containing compounds.

In nomenclature, the "-one" suffix is used to denote that the carbonyl group is located within the carbon chain, as opposed to being at the end of the chain, which would indicate an aldehyde (usually associated with the suffix "-al"). The presence of a carbonyl group also plays a critical role in defining the reactivity and properties of ketones, making them important in various chemical reactions and applications, particularly in organic synthesis.

Understanding this specific suffix helps in correctly identifying and naming compounds based on their functional groups, which is essential in organic chemistry.