Acetal
Acetal
Acetal (/əˈsiːtəl/) is a functional group in organic chemistry. It is derived from the aldehyde or ketone by the addition of an alcohol molecule. The term 'acetal' is derived from 'acetic aldehyde', the specific compound from which acetals were first prepared.
Structure
An acetal is a molecule with the general formula R2C(OR')2, where R and R' are organic groups. The central carbon atom is bonded to two oxygen atoms, each of which is bonded to another carbon atom. This structure distinguishes acetals from other types of organic compounds such as esters and ethers.
Formation
Acetals are formed through a process known as acetalization. This involves the reaction of an aldehyde or ketone with an alcohol in the presence of an acid catalyst. The reaction is reversible, and the reverse reaction (hydrolysis) can be used to convert an acetal back into the original aldehyde or ketone.
Uses
Acetals are used in a variety of applications in organic chemistry. They are often used as protecting groups for aldehydes and ketones during chemical reactions. In addition, some acetals are used as solvents or as intermediates in the synthesis of other organic compounds.
Related Terms
- Hemiacetal: A related functional group in which the central carbon atom is bonded to one -OR group and one -OH group.
- Ketal: A type of acetal in which the central carbon atom is part of a ketone rather than an aldehyde.
- Protecting group: A group that is added to a molecule to prevent it from reacting in a certain way during a chemical reaction.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Acetal
- Wikipedia's article - Acetal
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