metyylialdehydin

Metyylialdehydi, also known as acetaldehyde, is an organic compound with the chemical formula CH3CHO. It is a colorless liquid at room temperature with a pungent, fruity odor. Acetaldehyde is a highly reactive aldehyde and a key intermediate in many industrial chemical processes. It is flammable and can form explosive mixtures with air.

In nature, acetaldehyde is produced during the fermentation of carbohydrates by yeasts and bacteria, a process that also generates ethanol. It is also a byproduct of the metabolism of alcohol in the human body, contributing to the symptoms of a hangover. Acetaldehyde is found in trace amounts in various foods and beverages, including fruits, coffee, and alcoholic drinks.

Industrially, acetaldehyde is primarily produced through the oxidation of ethylene or the hydration of acetylene. It serves as a precursor in the synthesis of a wide range of chemicals, including acetic acid, acetic anhydride, peracetic acid, and pentaerythritol. These compounds have numerous applications in industries such as plastics, pharmaceuticals, dyes, and fragrances. Due to its toxicity and potential carcinogenicity, exposure to acetaldehyde is carefully regulated in industrial settings.