undecanal

Undecanal is an organic compound with the chemical formula C11H22O. It is also known as undecylic aldehyde. Structurally, it is an aldehyde with an eleven-carbon chain. This means it has a carbonyl group (C=O) at the end of a saturated hydrocarbon chain. Undecanal is a colorless liquid at room temperature. It is characterized by a distinct waxy or fatty odor, which is often described as floral and citrusy. This olfactory property makes it useful in the fragrance industry.

Undecanal occurs naturally in some essential oils, such as those derived from citrus fruits like orange and lemon. It is also found in trace amounts in other plant sources. Industrially, undecanal can be synthesized through various chemical processes, commonly involving the oxidation of undecanol or the reduction of undecanoic acid derivatives. Its primary application is as a component in perfumes and other scented products, where it contributes to specific fragrance notes. It can also be used as an intermediate in the synthesis of other organic chemicals. Due to its relatively long carbon chain, it has low solubility in water but is soluble in organic solvents.