Acetaldehyde

Acetaldehyde (systematic name ethanal) is an organic compound with the chemical formula CH₃COH. It is one of the simplest aldehydes. It is important in both biology and thechemical industry.

Acetaldehyde is made by plants. It is found in coffee, bread and fruit. The human body makes acetaldehyde when it breaks down ethanol. Acetaldehyde in the body is a major cause of hangover symptoms.

Preparation

Acetaldehyde can be made by oxidation of ethylene or ethanol. It was historically made by the addition of water to acetylene.

References

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