Carbanion

/ˌkɑːrˈbænaɪən/ noun

Definition

A negatively charged carbon atom with an extra electron, commonly involved in organic chemical reactions and important in understanding how molecules react.

Etymology

From carb- (carbon) plus anion (negatively charged ion), a compound term created in modern chemistry to describe this reactive species.

Kelly Says

Carbanions are like the 'rebel' form of carbon atoms—they're so eager to gain stability that they'll react with almost anything, making them crucial intermediates in creating new molecules!

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