ACETALDEHYDE Meaning and
Definition
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Acetaldehyde is a noun that refers to a colorless, volatile chemical compound with the chemical formula CH3CHO. It is also known as ethanal and has a pungent, fruity odor. Acetaldehyde is produced through the oxidation of ethanol (the alcohol found in alcoholic beverages) by enzymes in the liver. It is classified as an aldehyde due to the presence of the carbonyl group (C=O) in its structure.
Acetaldehyde has many industrial applications, including as a precursor for the production of numerous chemicals and resins, such as acetic acid, acetic anhydride, and vinyl acetate. It is also used in the manufacturing of synthetic fibers, rubber, plastics, and dyes. Furthermore, acetaldehyde is a key component in the production of perfumes, flavors, and fragrances.
In addition to its industrial uses, acetaldehyde is also found naturally in certain ripe fruits and vegetables, as well as in coffee and bread. It is formed during the fermentation and oxidation processes in various food and beverages, giving rise to the distinct aromas and flavors observed in these products.
However, acetaldehyde is considered a toxic substance, and excessive exposure can lead to adverse health effects. It is a known carcinogen and can cause irritation to the eyes, respiratory tract, and skin upon contact. Prolonged exposure to acetaldehyde has been associated with increased risks of respiratory diseases, liver damage, and cognitive impairment.
In conclusion, acetaldehyde is a volatile chemical compound with various industrial uses and is naturally present in certain foods. While it contributes to flavors and fragrances, its excessive exposure can have detrimental effects on human health.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ACETALDEHYDE
Etymology of ACETALDEHYDE
The word "acetaldehyde" is derived from two components: "acet-" and "-aldehyde".
The first component, "acet-", originates from the Latin word "acetum" which means "vinegar". It was later adopted by the German chemist Justus von Liebig in the early 19th century to represent the acetyl radical, derived from acetic acid.
The second component, "-aldehyde", comes from the Arabic word "al-kuḥl" meaning "the powder" or "the essence". This term was initially used to refer to antimony sulfide powder, which was used as an eye cosmetic in ancient times. In modern chemistry, "-aldehyde" is used to denote a class of organic compounds that contain the functional group -CHO, which is a carbonyl group bonded to a hydrogen atom.
Similar spelling words for ACETALDEHYDE
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