Aldehyde Nomenclature: Methanal
Propionaldehyde
Methanal is also known as formaldehyde. The aldehyde functional group is characterized by the presence of a carbonyl center, which consists of a carbon atom double-bonded to an oxygen atom, along with a hydrogen atom. In the case of formaldehyde, this functional group is located at the terminal carbon atom of the molecule.
The IUPAC name for formaldehyde is methanal. This name indicates that the molecule consists of a single carbon atom (the prefix “meth-“) that is bonded to an aldehyde functional group (the suffix “-anal”). The prefix “meth-” is used to indicate the presence of a single carbon atom, while the suffix “-anal” is used to indicate the presence of an aldehyde functional group.
In addition to its IUPAC name, formaldehyde is also commonly referred to by its common name. This name is derived from the fact that formaldehyde was first isolated by distilling formic acid, which is a common component of ant venom. The name “formaldehyde” therefore reflects the historical origins of the molecule.
Overall, the nomenclature of formaldehyde reflects both the structure and historical context of the molecule. By understanding the underlying principles of aldehyde nomenclature, chemists are able to accurately describe and identify a wide range of organic compounds.
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