Aldehdit

Aldehdit is not a standard term in chemistry. It may refer informally to aldehydes, a class of organic compounds containing the formyl group (-CHO). This article provides a concise overview.

Aldehydes are defined by a carbonyl group bonded to at least one hydrogen: R-CHO. The carbonyl carbon is sp2-hybridized and susceptible to nucleophilic attack.

Nomenclature: The IUPAC name is an alkanal for the aldehyde. Examples include methanal (formaldehyde), ethanal (acetaldehyde), and benzaldehyde. Common names often reflect the R group.

Properties: Aldehydes are typically polar and often volatile. Boiling points increase with molecular size. They undergo oxidation to carboxylic acids and reduction to primary alcohols, as well as a variety of addition reactions.

Production and occurrence: Industrial aldehydes are produced by partial oxidation of primary alcohols or by hydroformylation of alkenes, followed by purification. Formaldehyde is produced from methanol oxidation; other aldehydes arise from different feedstocks and methods.

Applications: Aldehydes are used as solvents, in flavors and fragrances, and as precursors to polymers (such as resins) and pharmaceuticals. They also serve as intermediates in organic synthesis for a wide range of products.

Safety: Aldehydes vary in toxicity, with formaldehyde being particularly hazardous. They can be irritants and, in some cases, carcinogenic. Proper handling, ventilation, and protective equipment are important in workflows involving aldehydes.