Ketene (source code)
= Ketene
<Ketene> is the compound $\mathrm{CH_2=C=O}$, also called ethenone. More generally, ketenes contain the cumulative $\mathrm{C=C=O}$ unit.<NIST Chemistry WebBook, SRD 69>[Ketene, CAS463-51-4: formula, structure and alternative name]{ref} Adjacent double bonds make this a different <functional group> from an ordinary isolated <alkene> or <ketone>.
Attack by a suitable <nucleophile> at the electrophilic carbon can convert a ketene into a carboxylic-acid derivative; addition of <water>, for example, gives an acid. Substitution around the terminal carbon affects both reaction selectivity and competing pathways. The displayed parent formula should not be confused with every substituted member of the ketene class.
Back to article page
