Formil

Formil is a chemical term referring to a group or radical derived from formic acid. The formyl group has the chemical formula -CHO. It is an aldehyde functional group, characterized by a carbonyl group (C=O) bonded to a hydrogen atom. This specific arrangement makes it a very reactive species in organic chemistry. Formyl groups are commonly found in various organic compounds and play a role in many chemical reactions. For example, formyl compounds can be oxidized to carboxyl groups or reduced to methyl groups. The formyl group is also present in simple aldehydes like formaldehyde (HCHO) and acetaldehyde (CH3CHO). In the context of organic synthesis, the introduction or manipulation of a formyl group is a common strategy to build more complex molecules. Its presence can influence the physical and chemical properties of a molecule, affecting its reactivity and potential applications.