Paraethylbenzaldehyde

Paraethylbenzaldehyde is an organic compound with the chemical formula C9H10O. It is an aromatic aldehyde, meaning it contains a benzene ring with an aldehyde functional group attached. Specifically, it is a derivative of benzaldehyde where an ethyl group (-CH2CH3) is substituted at the para position (the position opposite the aldehyde group) on the benzene ring. Its IUPAC name is 4-ethylbenzaldehyde.

This compound typically appears as a colorless to pale yellow liquid. It possesses a distinct odor, often described as floral or fruity, which makes it of interest in the fragrance and flavor industries. Paraethylbenzaldehyde can be synthesized through various organic reactions, including the formylation of ethylbenzene or the oxidation of 4-ethylbenzyl alcohol.

In terms of its chemical properties, paraethylbenzaldehyde undergoes typical reactions characteristic of aldehydes, such as oxidation to the corresponding carboxylic acid (4-ethylbenzoic acid) and reduction to the alcohol (4-ethylbenzyl alcohol). It can also participate in condensation reactions. Due to its aromatic nature and functional groups, it finds applications as an intermediate in the synthesis of more complex organic molecules, including pharmaceuticals, dyes, and specialty chemicals. Its use in perfumery is often as a component to impart specific aromatic notes to fragrance compositions.