Aldehydes
Organic Chemicals 2025-03-02
Definition & Structure
Aldehydes are organic compounds with a terminal carbonyl group (C=O), bonded to at least one hydrogen atom.
- General Formula: R–CHO (R = alkyl, aryl, or H)
- Key Feature: Highly reactive due to the polar C=O bond and exposed carbonyl carbon.
Classification & Examples
| Type | Example | Structure | Odor/Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aliphatic | Formaldehyde (HCHO) |  |
Pungent; disinfectant, resins |
| Aromatic | Benzaldehyde (C₆H₅CHO) |  |
Almond-like; flavoring agent |
| Unsaturated | Acrolein (CH₂=CH–CHO) |  |
Sharp; tear gas, acrylic acid precursor |
Key Properties
| Property | Behavior | Application Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Reactivity | Prone to oxidation (→ carboxylic acids), nucleophilic addition | Synthesis intermediates |
| Odor | Ranges from fruity (citral) to irritating (formaldehyde) | Perfumes, warning agents |
| Boiling Point | Lower than alcohols (no H-bonding) | Volatile solvents |
Industrial Applications
| Industry | Use Case | Example Aldehyde |
|---|---|---|
| Resins | Bakelite, adhesives | Formaldehyde |
| Flavors/Fragrances | Vanillin, cinnamaldehyde | Benzaldehyde derivatives |
| Pharmaceuticals | Drug synthesis (e.g., chloral hydrate) | Acetaldehyde |
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