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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Formaldehyde and Acetaldehyde?

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Formaldehyde and acetaldehyde are both organic compounds categorized as aldehydes. The key difference between them lies in their chemical formulas and the presence of a methyl group in acetaldehyde.

  • Formaldehyde: It is the simplest aldehyde with the chemical formula CH2O. Formaldehyde is a colorless gas at room temperature and is commonly found in a liquid state on a commercial scale.
  • Acetaldehyde: It has the chemical formula CH3CHO and contains a methyl group attached to the aldehyde functional group. Acetaldehyde is also a colorless gas at room temperature.

A chemical test can be used to distinguish between formaldehyde and acetaldehyde. When treated with iodine in the presence of a base (such as sodium hydroxide), acetaldehyde gives off a yellow color precipitation, while formaldehyde does not react with it. This reaction, known as the iodoform reaction, is used to prove the presence of a specific carbonyl group in a compound.

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  • What is the Difference Between Formaldehyde and Acetaldehyde?
  • Comparative Table: Formaldehyde vs Acetaldehyde

    • Comparative Table: Formaldehyde vs Acetaldehyde

    Formaldehyde and acetaldehyde are both aldehyde compounds, but they have different chemical structures and properties. Here is a comparison table highlighting their differences:

    Property Formaldehyde Acetaldehyde
    Chemical Formula CH2O CH3CHO
    Hydrogen Atom Contains a hydrogen atom bonded to the aldehyde functional group Contains a methyl group attached to the carbonyl functional group
    Uses Formaldehyde is used as a precursor to acetic acid production, in the synthesis of 1-butanol, perfumes, flavorings, aniline dyes, plastics, synthetic rubber, etc. Acetaldehyde is used in various industries and can be found in products such as perfumes, flavorings, and plastics

    Both formaldehyde and acetaldehyde are usually colorless gases at room temperature.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.