CH2OCHCH2

CH2OCHCH2, also known as acetaldehyde, is an organic compound with the chemical formula C2H4O. It is a colorless liquid with a pungent, fruity odor, similar to that of apple or pear. Acetaldehyde is the simplest aldehyde, containing a carbonyl group (C=O) and a hydrogen atom attached to the same carbon atom. It is a versatile intermediate in the chemical industry, used in the production of various chemicals, including acetic acid, ethanol, and polymers. Acetaldehyde is also a natural compound found in fruits, vegetables, and fermented beverages. It is toxic when inhaled or ingested in large amounts, causing symptoms such as headache, dizziness, and nausea. In the human body, acetaldehyde is produced as a byproduct of ethanol metabolism and is involved in the formation of acetaldehyde adducts, which are associated with certain types of cancer.