Final answer:
The cyano functional group consists of a carbon atom triple-bonded to a nitrogen atom, and it is crucial for defining the chemical reactivity of organic molecules.
Step-by-step explanation:
The cyano functional group in organic chemistry is characterized by a carbon atom triple-bonded to a nitrogen atom (C≡N). This group is also known as the nitrile group. It is a polar bond, with the nitrogen atom having a lone pair of electrons in one of its sp orbitals. Functional groups, like the cyano group, are important as they determine the chemical reactivity and properties of organic molecules. For example, the presence of a cyano group in a molecule will influence its reactivity towards nucleophiles and electrophiles due to its polar nature and ability to serve as a point of attachment in chemical reactions.