Formylgrupper

Formylgrupper, also known as aldehyde groups, are functional groups in organic chemistry characterized by a carbonyl group (C=O) bonded to a hydrogen atom and an R-group, where R can be another hydrogen atom or an alkyl or aryl group. The general formula for a formyl group is -CHO.

Aldehydes containing a formyl group are named by replacing the final 'e' of the parent alkane with '-al'. For example, the simplest aldehyde, methanal (formaldehyde), has the formula HCHO. The presence of the formyl group imparts specific chemical properties to molecules. Aldehydes are known for their reactivity, particularly their susceptibility to oxidation and nucleophilic addition. They can be oxidized to carboxylic acids.

Formyl groups are found in many naturally occurring compounds, including sugars (where they are part of aldoses) and amino acids. They also play crucial roles in biological processes, such as metabolic pathways. In industrial chemistry, aldehydes are important intermediates in the synthesis of various products, including plastics, solvents, and pharmaceuticals. Formaldehyde, a simple aldehyde, is widely used as a disinfectant and preservative, as well as in the production of resins. The reactivity of the formyl group allows for a wide range of chemical transformations, making it a versatile building block in organic synthesis.