Terpenoid/Terpenes Introduction

Question 1

What are Terpenoids or Terpenes?

Answer 1

Diverse group named after the number of atoms within
* Monoterpenes - one set of 10 carbon atoms
* Sesquiterpenes - 15 carbon atoms (1.5 sets of 10)
* Diterpenes - 20 carbon atoms (2 sets of 10)
* Triterpenes - 30 carbon atoms
* Tetraterpenes - 40 carbon atoms

Question 2

Whrere do they occur?

Answer 2

They are oil and ethanol soluble
Occur in
* Essential Oils
* Resins
* Oleoresins (And Oleo-gum resins)
* Latexes