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acetic anhydride
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acetic anhydride

chemical compound
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Quick Summary

Acetic anhydride is a colorless liquid with a pungent odor, represented by the chemical formula C4H6O3. It is a type of organic anhydride, which are chemical compounds formed by the removal of water from another compound.12

Acetic anhydride is significant in organic synthesis and is used in the production of cellulose acetate and aspirin. Industrially, it can be prepared through the oxidation of acetaldehyde or from acetic acid using acetylene or ketene. It reacts with water to form carboxylic acids, with alcohols to create esters, and with amines to produce amides.12

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