pimelaldehyde

Pimelaldehyde is a chemical compound with the formula C7H10O2. It is a dialdehyde, meaning it contains two aldehyde functional groups. Specifically, it is the dialdehyde derived from pimelic acid, a seven-carbon dicarboxylic acid. The two aldehyde groups are located at the terminal positions of the seven-carbon chain.

Pimelaldehyde exists as a colorless liquid or low-melting solid. It is soluble in water and common organic solvents. Due to the reactive nature of aldehyde groups, pimelaldehyde can undergo various chemical reactions, including oxidation to pimelic acid and reduction to the corresponding diol, heptane-1,7-diol. It can also participate in condensation reactions and polymerization.

This compound is not as commonly encountered as some other dialdehydes. It can be synthesized through the oxidation of heptane-1,7-diol or by the ozonolysis of suitable cyclic alkenes. Its applications are primarily in organic synthesis, where it can serve as a building block for more complex molecules. For instance, it can be used in the formation of cyclic compounds or polymers containing recurring aldehyde functionalities. Research into its specific biological activities or industrial uses is limited compared to simpler aldehydes.