Terpenoid vs. Terpene — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on May 17, 2024
Terpenoids are chemically modified terpenes with additional functional groups, while terpenes are natural hydrocarbons produced by plants, primarily responsible for their scent.
Difference Between Terpenoid and Terpene
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Terpenoids, also known as isoprenoids, are derivatives of terpenes that have undergone oxygenation or rearrangement of the carbon skeleton. Terpenes, on the other hand, are a large and diverse class of organic compounds made up of repeating isoprene units. These hydrocarbons are produced by a wide variety of plants, particularly conifers, and are primarily responsible for the characteristic fragrances of these plants.
While terpenes are fundamental building blocks in organic chemistry, serving as precursors to more complex molecules, terpenoids offer greater diversity in structure and function. Their chemical versatility makes them a significant focus in research and industrial applications.
Terpenes are usually classified based on the number of isoprene units they contain, such as monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, and diterpenes. Terpenoids follow a similar classification but with added complexity due to their functional groups.
Both terpenes and terpenoids are integral to the aromatic profiles of many plants and are extensively studied for their potential health benefits. However, terpenoids, with their modified structures, often possess unique properties not found in simple terpenes.
Comparison Chart
Chemical Structure
Modified terpenes with functional groups
Hydrocarbons composed of isoprene units
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Source
Derived from terpenes
Produced naturally by plants
Complexity
More complex due to added functional groups
Simpler structure
Uses
Pharmaceuticals, perfumery, bioactive compounds
Fragrances, plant defense, attract pollinators
Biological Activity
Often higher due to functional groups
Varies, primarily aromatic
Compare with Definitions
Terpenoid
A chemically modified terpene with added functional groups.
Menthol is a terpenoid commonly used in cough drops.
Terpene
An organic compound produced by plants, especially conifers.
Pinene is a terpene found in pine needles.
Terpenoid
A compound with a diverse range of biological activities due to its functional groups.
Many terpenoids have potent anti-inflammatory properties.
Terpene
A precursor to more complex molecules in organic chemistry.
Terpenes are the building blocks for many plant resins and essential oils.
Terpenoid
An isoprenoid compound derived from the oxygenation of terpenes.
Carotenoids are essential terpenoids in the human diet.
Terpene
A compound responsible for the aroma of many plants.
Myrcene, a terpene in hops, gives beer its distinctive smell.
Terpenoid
A component found in essential oils with aromatic and medicinal properties.
The terpenoid linalool contributes to the soothing scent of lavender.
Terpene
A hydrocarbon made up of repeating isoprene units.
Limonene is a common terpene giving citrus fruits their characteristic smell.
Terpenoid
A structurally complex molecule derived from a simpler terpene.
Ginkgolides, terpenoids from Ginkgo biloba, are studied for their health benefits.
Terpene
Terpenes () are a class of natural products consisting of compounds with the formula (C5H8)n. Comprising more than 30,000 compounds, these unsaturated hydrocarbons are produced predominantly by plants, particularly conifers.
Terpenoid
The terpenoids, also known as isoprenoids, are a large and diverse class of naturally occurring organic chemicals derived from the 5-carbon compound isoprene, and the isoprene polymers called terpenes. While sometimes used interchangeably with "terpenes", terpenoids contain additional functional groups, usually containing oxygen.
Terpene
Any of various unsaturated hydrocarbons, C10H16, found in essential oils and oleoresins of plants such as conifers and used in organic syntheses.
Terpenoid
Any of various unsaturated hydrocarbons, C10H16, found in essential oils and oleoresins of plants such as conifers and used in organic syntheses.
Terpene
(organic compound) Any of a very large class of naturally occurring and synthetic organic compounds formally derived from the hydrocarbon isoprene; they include many volatile compounds used in perfume and food flavours, turpentine, the steroids, the carotene pigments and rubber.
Terpenoid
(organic chemistry) A very large class of naturally occurring and synthetic organic compounds formally derived from the hydrocarbon isoprene; they include many volatile compounds used in perfume and food flavours, turpentine, the steroids, the carotene pigments and rubber.
Terpene
Any one of a series of isomeric hydrocarbons of pleasant aromatic odor, occurring especially in coniferous plants and represented by oil of turpentine, but including also certain hydrocarbons found in some essential oils.
Terpene
An unsaturated hydrocarbon obtained from plants
Terpene
A substance playing a role in plant defense and pollinator attraction.
Terpenes help plants deter herbivores and attract beneficial insects.
Common Curiosities
What is a terpene?
A terpene is a hydrocarbon compound made up of isoprene units, produced naturally by plants.
How do terpenoids differ from terpenes?
Terpenoids are modified terpenes with functional groups, whereas terpenes are simple hydrocarbons.
Where are terpenoids commonly found?
Terpenoids are found in essential oils and have aromatic and medicinal properties.
Are terpenoids more complex than terpenes?
Yes, terpenoids are more complex due to their additional functional groups.
What is a terpenoid?
A terpenoid is a chemically modified terpene with additional functional groups.
What are common uses of terpenes?
Terpenes are used in fragrances, as plant defense mechanisms, and to attract pollinators.
What is an example of a terpenoid?
Menthol, found in mint, is a well-known terpenoid.
Why are terpenoids important in pharmaceuticals?
Terpenoids are important due to their diverse and potent biological activities.
Do terpenoids have higher biological activity than terpenes?
Yes, due to their functional groups, terpenoids often exhibit higher biological activity.
What role do terpenes play in plants?
Terpenes play roles in plant defense and attraction of pollinators.
What are the primary characteristics of terpenes?
Terpenes are characterized by their aromatic properties and simple hydrocarbon structure.
What is the basic building block of terpenes?
The basic building block of terpenes is the isoprene unit.
What is an example of a terpene?
Limonene, found in citrus peels, is a common terpene.
Can terpenes be precursors to other compounds?
Yes, terpenes serve as precursors to more complex molecules.
How are terpenoids classified?
Terpenoids are classified based on their structural modifications and functional groups.
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Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
