24dihydroxybutanal

2,4-dihydroxybutanal is an organic compound with the chemical formula C4H8O3. It is a four-carbon aldehyde that contains hydroxyl groups at the second and fourth carbon positions. This molecule can exist in various tautomeric forms, including cyclic hemiacetals, due to the presence of both aldehyde and hydroxyl functionalities. It is a derivative of butanal, where two hydrogen atoms have been replaced by hydroxyl groups. Its structure can be represented as HOCH2-CH(OH)-CH2-CHO or in its cyclic forms. The compound is typically encountered as a colorless liquid or solid, depending on its purity and the specific tautomer present. Its properties are influenced by the presence of polar hydroxyl and aldehyde groups, making it soluble in water and other polar solvents. It can participate in reactions characteristic of both aldehydes, such as oxidation and nucleophilic addition, and alcohols, such as esterification. The synthesis of 2,4-dihydroxybutanal can be achieved through various chemical pathways, often involving the reduction or functionalization of related compounds. It is sometimes found as an intermediate in biochemical processes.